Democratic states sue Trump administration over federal funding freeze
BUFFALO, N.Y. (WIVB) -- Attorneys general from across the country are suing the Trump Administration over a new policy to freeze federal grant funding. The freeze was temporarily blocked until Monday by a federal judge late Tuesday.
Six attorneys general from across the country in Democratic states, including in New York state, are suing the Trump Administration over the federal freeze.
New York's Attorney General Letitia James said the policy to freeze federal funding could impact SNAP benefits, which used to be called the Food Stamp program. The freeze could also affect programs such as Head Start, veterans programs and programs to reduce crime, among other programs that millions of people rely on.
James said Tuesday before the temporarily block that the state's Medicaid reimbursement system was already frozen. She called the pause on federal funds unconstitutional and said it puts people at risk.
"From the families who rely upon Head Start for child care, to the children across the country who depend on SNAP for their next meal, to the seniors who rely on the state services to get the care that they need, this policy will disrupt the lives of millions of Americans in New York and nationwide," James said.
Governor Kathy Hochul also addressed the situation and said the state relies on $93 billion in federal funding.
"We're into governing, not panicking, and as I said, I'm not playing whac-o-mole with every single initiative that comes out of Washington, I have to govern a state," Hochul said.
James said the Trump administration may be attempting to clarify this policy, but attorneys general from across the country said the new policy is illegal because it impacts funding that Congress has already approved.
Jeff Preval is an award-winning anchor and reporter who joined the News 4 team in December 2021. See more of his work here.