A federal judge has extended the temporary block on the Trump administration's ability to freeze federal grants and loans, marking another legal setback for the White House's Office of Management and Budget. The decision comes after a week of chaos and confusion caused by the administration's plans to withhold trillions of dollars in aid.
The temporary restraining order was issued by US District Judge Loren AliKhan just before a previous block on the aid freeze was set to expire. In her ruling, AliKhan emphasized the impact of the pause on Americans, stating that each day the freeze continues denies people access to vital programs that provide healthcare, housing, and food.
One example cited in the court proceedings was a charity organization in West Virginia that assists the ill and elderly by providing transportation to medical appointments and essential services. The organization faced a funding crisis over the weekend due to the administration's actions.
AliKhan's order specifically prohibits the Trump administration from blocking the release of funding for 'open awards' that were previously granted by the federal government. The new block will remain in effect for at least 14 days, providing relief to the nonprofits that sued the government over the funding issue.
The Washington, DC, judge, appointed by former President Joe Biden, expressed confidence that the nonprofits challenging the administration's actions are likely to succeed in their case. The ruling underscores the importance of ensuring that critical funding reaches those in need without unnecessary delays or disruptions.
