Trump administration withholds $230 million from Pennsylvania schools, prompting lawsuit
The Trump Administration’s decision to freeze \$230 million in federal education funding has triggered a legal battle with Pennsylvania and more than two dozen states. Governor Josh Shapiro announced Monday that the Commonwealth is joining a multistate lawsuit challenging what he called an unlawful move that threatens critical school programs across Pennsylvania.
The funding, which was appropriated by Congress and expected to be delivered to the Pennsylvania Department of Education on July 1, supports a wide range of education initiatives. The abrupt freeze came without warning on June 30, just one day before states traditionally gain access to those funds. The U.S. Department of Education offered no explanation for the sudden reversal.
At stake are programs designed to improve teacher recruitment and training, provide before- and after-school enrichment, support English language learners, and connect students to in-demand industries. Specific allocations include \$70 million for teacher training, \$55 million for academic enrichment and school technology, and \$54 million for community learning centers that provide afterschool services.
The freeze also halts \$11 million in support for the children of migrant farmworkers, \$20 million for English language acquisition, and nearly \$21 million for adult education and family literacy. An additional \$2 million intended for English literacy and civics education services for adults has also been blocked.
Governor Shapiro said the cuts leave local school districts scrambling to balance budgets and sustain essential services. He accused the administration of once again placing partisan politics ahead of students’ needs.
This lawsuit follows several others filed by Shapiro this year in response to broader Trump Administration funding rollbacks, including public health and education grants. His previous legal efforts have already restored over \$2 billion in federal funds to Pennsylvania.
Pennsylvania is joined in the lawsuit by 25 other states and the District of Columbia, in a coordinated legal challenge aimed at compelling the federal government to release the promised funds and uphold its legal obligations to students, educators, and families.
Source: pa.gov