Golden State Today

California Attorney General Rob Bonta, alongside New York Attorney General Letitia James, has initiated a lawsuit with a coalition of 23 attorneys general to prevent the implementation of an Office of Management and Budget (OMB) directive. This directive aims to freeze up to $3 trillion in federal assistance funding starting today at 2 pm PT / 5 pm ET. The coalition is seeking a temporary restraining order, arguing that the directive will cause immediate harm by halting essential funding for programs related to disaster recovery, public health, education, and public safety.

Attorney General Bonta criticized the Trump Administration's decision, stating: "The Trump Administration is recklessly disregarding the health, wellbeing, and public safety of the people it is supposed to serve." He emphasized that this action would create chaos and confusion among residents. Bonta further accused President Trump of pursuing an unlawful agenda reminiscent of his previous administration.

The attorneys general argue that the OMB's decision violates both the U.S. Constitution and the Administrative Procedure Act. They contend that Congress has not granted OMB unilateral authority to pause federal financial assistance indefinitely without considering existing statutes or contractual terms. Additionally, they claim this move breaches the separation of powers outlined in the Spending Clause of the U.S. Constitution.

This legal action highlights concerns over potential cash shortfalls for states if the directive remains in effect. Such shortfalls could hinder basic program administration, including healthcare funding and emergency response efforts like those required for Los Angeles' wildfire recovery.

Joining California and New York in this lawsuit are attorneys general from Arizona, Colorado, Connecticut, Delaware, Hawaii, Illinois, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Nevada, North Carolina, New Jersey, New Mexico, Oregon Rhode Island Vermont Washington Wisconsin and Washington D.C.

A copy of the complaint can be accessed online.