Golden State Today

California Attorney General Rob Bonta has filed a lawsuit against the U.S. Department of Education, challenging its recent decision to rescind access to education funding previously awarded to states. The lawsuit, filed together with 15 other attorneys general, names the Trump Administration's action as unlawful and a violation of the Administrative Procedures Act. According to Bonta, the decision could have devastating impacts on school districts across the nation, including more than $200 million in California alone that is earmarked for academic recovery post-COVID-19.

"The Trump Administration’s blatant disregard for the education of our children is on full display with this latest round of funding cuts," said Attorney General Bonta. "With each step President Trump takes to dismantle the Education Department, he is throwing our schools into turmoil and jeopardizing the academic success of a generation of American children. As a father, I can’t stand by and let this happen. I’m taking the President to court for the 13th time to help ensure our kids get the educational opportunities they deserve."

The issue came to a head when Education Secretary Linda McMahon informed state departments on March 28, 2025, that prior actions preserving states' funding access had been unilaterally rescinded. These funds are directed towards programs addressing lost instructional time, and social and emotional needs of students, particularly those economically disadvantaged, including homeless and foster care children.

The coalition of attorneys general argues that the Department's actions are beyond its authority and not only contravene the law but jeopardize critical educational programs. The legal filing seeks to overturn the rescission and restore funding access through March 2026.

Joining Bonta in the lawsuit are attorneys general from Arizona, Delaware, Hawai’i, Illinois, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Nevada, New Jersey, New Mexico, New York, Oregon, and the District of Columbia, along with the Governor of Pennsylvania.