State Attorneys General Challenge Health Fund Cuts

Twenty-three state attorneys general have sued the Trump administration over an $11 billion cut in federal COVID-19 and public health funding. The lawsuit claims the cuts are illegal and endanger public health efforts, including COVID-19 testing, vaccination, and mental health programs.

A coalition of attorneys general from 23 states has filed a lawsuit against the Trump administration's decision to slash $11 billion in federal funding for COVID-19 and public health projects. The legal action, spearheaded by New York Attorney General Letitia James and counterparts across the country, argues that the cuts are unlawful and jeopardize nationwide public health initiatives.

The funds were originally allocated by Congress for pandemic-related efforts, including testing, vaccination, and crucial addiction and mental health services. James emphasized the potential fallout, stating the funding cuts could reverse progress on the opioid crisis, destabilize mental health systems, and strain hospitals.

This move comes as the US Health and Human Services Department begins issuing layoff notices, potentially affecting up to 10,000 employees. Federal officials defended the cuts, citing an end to the federal public health emergency, yet local health departments remain concerned about the ongoing need for resources.

(With inputs from agencies.)