MA AG Secures Court Decision Upholding Block on Federal Funding Freeze
Summary
Massachusetts Attorney General Andrea Joy Campbell announced a victory as the U.S. Court of Appeals for the First Circuit largely upheld a lower court order blocking the Trump Administration's freeze on federal funding to states. This decision ensures continued access to essential services funded by these federal grants.
What changed
The Massachusetts Attorney General's office, co-leading a coalition of 23 state AGs, has secured a significant legal victory. The U.S. Court of Appeals for the First Circuit largely affirmed a prior injunction, blocking the Trump Administration's policy that sought to categorically freeze trillions of dollars in essential federal funding to states. This ruling upholds the principle that the President cannot unilaterally override Congress's appropriations authority and ensures the continuation of critical state programs.
This decision has immediate implications for state governments that rely on federal grants for services such as healthcare, childcare, education, and infrastructure. While the ruling is a victory for the states involved, it underscores the ongoing tension between executive and legislative powers regarding federal fund allocation. Regulated entities, particularly government agencies and organizations receiving federal funds, should be aware that the legal challenge to this funding freeze has been largely successful, securing the flow of these critical resources.
What to do next
- Review federal funding agreements for any potential impacts from past funding freeze attempts.
- Stay informed on any further legal challenges or administrative actions related to federal fund allocation.
Source document (simplified)
- This page, AG Campbell Celebrates First Circuit Decision Upholding Block On Trump Administration Funding Freeze, is offered by
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Press Release
Press Release AG Campbell Celebrates First Circuit Decision Upholding Block On Trump Administration Funding Freeze
For immediate release: 3/17/2026
- Office of the Attorney General
Media Contact
Allie Zuliani, Deputy Press Secretary
Phone
Call Allie Zuliani, Deputy Press Secretary at (617) 727-2543
Online
Email Allie Zuliani, Deputy Press Secretary at Allie.Zuliani@mass.gov
Boston — Massachusetts Attorney General Andrea Joy Campbell released the following statement after the U.S. Court of Appeals for the First Circuit largely upheld a lower court order blocking the Trump Administration’s illegal effort to categorically freeze trillions of dollars in essential federal funding to states:
“This victory ensures that critical state programs providing services like health care, childcare, support for public schools, infrastructure improvements, and so much more can continue to function and serve our residents,” said AG Campbell. “This win also affirms what has long been enshrined in our laws and Constitution: that the President cannot override Congress’s power to decide how federal funds are spent. I will continue to hold this Administration accountable when it recklessly abuses its power, especially when those actions harm our residents and state economy.”
In January 2025, AG Campbell co-led a coalition of 23 attorneys general in suing to stop the implementation of a new federal policy that would have categorically withheld trillions of dollars in essential funding, impacting a vast array of important public services that states provide. In March 2025, AG Campbell won a preliminary injunction blocking the policy, and yesterday, the U.S. Court of Appeals for the First Circuit largely affirmed that order.
Media Contact
Allie Zuliani, Deputy Press Secretary
+
Phone
Call Allie Zuliani, Deputy Press Secretary at (617) 727-2543
Online
Email Allie Zuliani, Deputy Press Secretary at Allie.Zuliani@mass.gov
Office of the Attorney General
The Attorney General is the chief lawyer and law enforcement officer of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts.
Media Contact
Allie Zuliani, Deputy Press Secretary
Phone
Call Allie Zuliani, Deputy Press Secretary at (617) 727-2543
Online
Email Allie Zuliani, Deputy Press Secretary at Allie.Zuliani@mass.gov
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