The Trump administration has announced a freeze on federal education funds, affecting states nationwide, including California. The decision to withhold $6.8 billion in education funds, of which at least $811 million was designated for California, was made with only a few hours’ notice. The funds were intended for teacher training, after-school programs, and support for English learners and migrant students.
California State Superintendent Tony Thurmond criticized the move, calling it illegal. He emphasized that the funds were appropriated by Congress and cannot be withheld unilaterally by the President. Thurmond stated, “This illegal action will harm students starting now. It cannot stand!” according to the Los Angeles Times.
The Trump administration’s decision is reportedly linked to states allowing transgender athletes to participate in sports according to their gender identity. Education Secretary Linda McMahon had previously indicated that withholding funds was an option. The funds frozen include those under federal designations like Title III-A and Title I-C, which support English learners and migrant children, respectively.
In response, California officials, including Thurmond, are preparing legal challenges. ABC7 News reported that David Schapira, Chief of Staff for Thurmond, stated, “At every turn that the Trump administration has tried this, we have challenged these sorts of actions in court and have been successful.”
A temporary restraining order has been issued by a U.S. district judge in Rhode Island, blocking the freeze on federal assistance, as reported by EdSource. This order comes amid a federal lawsuit involving California Attorney General Rob Bonta and 22 other state attorneys general.
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