WASHINGTON — Five U.S. states filed a federal lawsuit against the Trump administration after federal officials froze funding for congressionally approved social services programs, according to court records.
The attorneys general of California, Colorado, Minnesota, Illinois and New York filed the case in federal court, arguing that the funding freeze unlawfully blocks money appropriated by Congress for state-run programs. The lawsuit challenges actions taken by the executive branch to halt or delay the release of the funds.
In the complaint, the states said the administration lacks the authority to unilaterally suspend spending approved by Congress. They argued that the Constitution grants spending power to the legislative branch and that the funding freeze violates the separation of powers.
The states said the frozen funds support programs that serve low-income families, children, seniors and people with disabilities. These programs include child welfare services, mental health care, disability assistance and aid for low-income households. State officials said the funding halt threatens the continuity of those services and places strain on state budgets.
According to the filing, the administration implemented the freeze without sufficient notice or clear guidance. The states said they had already budgeted for the funds based on existing federal spending laws and expected the money to be released on schedule. They said the delay created uncertainty for state agencies, local governments and nonprofit organizations that administer the programs.
The lawsuit asks the court to order the federal government to release the funds and to declare that the administration exceeded its legal authority. The states said that once Congress approves funding and the president signs the legislation, federal agencies must carry out the law as enacted.
The attorneys general cited constitutional provisions and federal statutes governing the budget process. They argued that existing law limits the executive branch’s ability to withhold or delay funds without following specific procedures.
The federal government has not yet filed a response in court.