Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro has filed a lawsuit against the Trump Administration, accusing it of unlawfully freezing over $3 billion in federal funds allocated to the state. The lawsuit, filed on Thursday (February 13), claims that the funding freeze violates court orders and congressional appropriations. The funds are intended for critical projects, including environmental restoration, public health, and energy cost reduction.
According to Democracy Docket, the Trump Administration's Office of Management and Budget issued a memo in January announcing the freeze, which was quickly rescinded but remains in effect. Shapiro argues that the freeze is illegal and that federal agencies are not authorized to withhold funds approved by Congress.
The lawsuit highlights the impact of the freeze on Pennsylvania's Department of Environmental Protection, which relies on federal funds to repair mining sites, maintain water treatment systems, and plug abandoned oil and gas wells. Shapiro's legal team contends that the freeze violates the Administrative Procedure Act and the U.S. Constitution's spending clause.
AP News reports that the Trump Administration has not provided a clear explanation for the funding suspension. The lawsuit seeks to compel the administration to release the funds and prevent further interference.
The White House dismissed the lawsuit, with Principal Deputy Press Secretary Harrison Fields stating that the administration is reviewing federal spending for waste and abuse. Meanwhile, Shapiro remains confident that the courts will rule in favor of Pennsylvania, ensuring that the funds reach the state's residents.