Golden State Today

California Attorney General Rob Bonta has initiated a lawsuit against the Trump Administration, leading a coalition of states in challenging the mass firing of nearly half of the U.S. Department of Education's workforce. This move is seen as part of President Trump's plan to close the department entirely.

Attorney General Bonta highlighted the significant impact these firings have on critical functions, particularly in the Office for Civil Rights, which has resulted in the closure of regional offices across several major cities. The coalition argues that these actions are unlawful and cannot override statutory functions and programs.

"The Trump Administration’s attempt to gut the Department of Education’s workforce is another step in its end goal of shuttering the department for good," said Attorney General Bonta. He emphasized that dismantling the department could have severe consequences and described it as "blatantly illegal."

The workforce reduction was initiated on March 11, affecting nearly 50% of employees. The total number will drop from 4,133 workers to approximately 2,183 after this action. Included are about 600 employees who opted for voluntary resignation or retirement.

The lawsuit contends that President Trump's directive and subsequent actions by Secretary Linda McMahon violate congressional acts authorizing and funding the department. It claims these steps breach legal obligations under separation of powers and exceed lawful authority per the Administrative Procedures Act.

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