Texas Refugee Service Sues Trump Administration Over $36 Million Funding Freeze

Catholic Charities Fort Worth has filed a lawsuit against the Trump administration, claiming that over $36 million intended for refugee support services has been unlawfully frozen. The lawsuit, filed in the U.S. District Court in Washington, D.C., names the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services and Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. as defendants, alleging that since late January, the funding has not been released despite other entities receiving their federal grants. This freeze has reportedly led to staff furloughs or layoffs at 24 of the 29 organizations in Texas that provide crucial services for approximately 100,000 authorized immigrants, such as English language classes and job placement assistance. Catholic Charities has made 14 requests for the funds without any response, arguing that the federal government's actions are causing real harm to the immigrant population it serves. The lawsuit highlights the urgent need for these funds, which are mandated by law for organizations contracted by the federal government to assist refugees. The federal government has not yet responded to requests for comment regarding the lawsuit.