Golden State Today

California Attorney General Rob Bonta announced that the U.S. District Court for the District of Rhode Island has granted a temporary restraining order restoring $11 billion in public health funding. This decision affects state and local health agencies nationwide, including $972 million allocated to California.

Attorney General Bonta stated, "Two days after filing our 9th lawsuit against the Trump Administration, we have secured a temporary order that restores public health funding and ensures communities nationwide are prepared for public health threats." Bonta emphasized the ongoing commitment to support health agencies in maintaining public health.

The funding issue began on March 24, 2025, when the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) issued termination notices to end federal funding grants with no prior warning. These grants aid in crucial public health services such as disease tracking and immunization access. Congressional appropriations aimed to prepare the nation for future health challenges.

In response, Attorney General Bonta, with a coalition of 23 states and the District of Columbia, filed a lawsuit against the Trump Administration’s HHS and Secretary Robert F. Kennedy, Jr., contesting the funding termination. The court's temporary order has reinstated essential funding for various public health programs across California.

This funding includes over $800 million for the California Department of Public Health to help vaccinate children and facilitate hospitals in managing emergencies. Additionally, $119 million is allocated to the California Department of Health Care Services for youth substance use disorder prevention in 18 counties. Los Angeles County will receive $45 million to combat measles and influenza.

A copy of the court order will be made available for public access.