Judge Blocks Trump Administration from Cutting $32.7 Million in Public Health Funds

A federal judge has issued a preliminary injunction preventing the Trump administration from withdrawing approximately $32.7 million in public health funding from four municipalities: Harris County, Texas; Columbus, Ohio; Nashville, Tennessee; and Kansas City, Missouri. The funds, initially allocated during the COVID-19 pandemic to bolster public health infrastructure, were slated for termination by the administration, citing the pandemic's conclusion.

U.S. District Judge Christopher Cooper's ruling on June 18, 2025, restores the funding, emphasizing the ongoing public health needs in these communities. The affected cities, along with the American Federation of State, County and Municipal Employees (AFSCME) union, had filed a lawsuit arguing that the funding was approved by Congress and that its cancellation was unconstitutional and violated Health and Human Services (HHS) regulations.

The lawsuit contended that the termination of the funds was unconstitutional, violating the separation of powers and the Administrative Procedure Act. The plaintiffs argued that the funding was approved by Congress and that its cancellation by the executive branch was unlawful.

The attempted funding cuts threatened essential public health services, including disease surveillance, staffing at health clinics, and programs combating infectious and chronic illnesses like measles and bird flu. The restoration of funds ensures the continuation of these critical services.

This case is part of a broader pattern of legal challenges against the Trump administration's attempts to reduce federal funding for public health and other services. For instance, in April 2025, a coalition of over two dozen labor unions, cities, and nonprofit organizations filed a lawsuit against the administration, alleging that recent federal workforce cuts constituted an unconstitutional overreach of power.

The court's decision reinforces the principle that the executive branch cannot unilaterally rescind funding approved by Congress, upholding the constitutional separation of powers. The ruling may influence future interactions between federal and local governments, particularly concerning the allocation and termination of federal funds. It also highlights the ongoing tensions between the Trump administration and Democrat-led municipalities.

The preliminary injunction issued by Judge Christopher Cooper marks a significant moment in the ongoing debate over federal public health funding. By preventing the Trump administration from withdrawing essential funds, the court has underscored the importance of maintaining robust public health infrastructure and respecting the constitutional balance of powers. This case may set a precedent for future disputes over federal funding and the autonomy of local governments in managing public health crises.