New York Attorney General Letitia James announced that the U.S. Department of Education has released nearly $7 billion in education funding that had previously been withheld. The funds, which were frozen by the Trump administration on June 30, supported six congressionally authorized programs including services for English learners, classroom technology, after-school enrichment, adult education, mental health services, and workforce development.
The reversal comes after a lawsuit was filed earlier this month by Attorney General James along with 22 other attorneys general and the governors of Pennsylvania and Kentucky. The New York State Education Department (NYSED) received notice that all previously frozen grant funding has now been awarded and will be released.
“This is a huge win for our schools, our students, and the rule of law,” said Attorney General James. “When the administration abruptly froze billions in education funding, they jeopardized afterschool childcare programs, teacher support services, and vital classroom resources just weeks before the new school year. Earlier this month, we took swift legal action, and today we are celebrating the results. I will always stand up to protect our students and New York State.”
NYSED Commissioner Betty A. Rosa expressed appreciation for the reinstatement of funds: “We are grateful that the federal government has fulfilled its commitment to the students of New York state by reinstating the grant funds that were previously withheld. These vital resources will empower both schools and districts to provide critical supports and services to their students, educators, and school communities. We thank the Attorney General and our congressional delegation for their collaboration in advocating for the restoration of this funding. The State Education Department and Board of Regents remain committed to working with all levels of government to ensure every student receives the high-quality education they deserve.”
In New York alone, more than $463 million had been frozen overnight when federal funds were halted. This represented about 13 percent of total K-12 education funding in the state and impacted summer programs as well as services planned for fall across 730 school districts.
The coalition’s lawsuit argued that freezing these funds violated several federal laws including those authorizing program appropriations as well as constitutional provisions such as separation of powers.
With today’s release from ED confirming full restoration of grants for all six affected programs, critical initiatives can resume ahead of the new school year. Allocations include over $125 million for teacher training and development; $107 million aimed at improving school safety; $102 million supporting after-school and summer programs; $52 million restoring adult education; and $10 million dedicated to immigrant student support. Programs benefiting English language learners—especially in New York City—will also continue uninterrupted. Additionally, thousands of students can return to summer learning activities while at least 67 full-time jobs at NYSED will be maintained.
