19 States Sue Trump Administration Over Unlawful HHS Restructuring

A coalition of 19 Democratic-led states, including Michigan, New York, California, and Illinois, has filed a federal lawsuit challenging the Trump administration’s sweeping restructuring of the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS). The states allege that HHS Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. and the administration unlawfully consolidated agencies, closed regional offices, and laid off tens of thousands of employees without congressional approval, undermining the department’s ability to fulfill its statutory duties. The restructuring, part of a government efficiency initiative, reduced the number of HHS agencies from 28 to 15 and resulted in the loss of up to 20,000 jobs, disrupting key public health programs and disease surveillance efforts. The lawsuit contends these actions violate the U.S. Constitution’s separation of powers by bypassing Congress’s authority over agency operations and funding. Plaintiffs seek a court order to block further layoffs, restore essential services, and prevent additional dismantling of HHS. The administration defends the restructuring as necessary for streamlining government and saving taxpayer money, while critics argue it puts public health at risk.