Mercer Times

Governor Phil Murphy and Attorney General Matthew J. Platkin of New Jersey have announced a temporary restraining order issued by a federal judge in response to a lawsuit filed by New Jersey and 22 other states. This legal action prevents the Trump administration from implementing a blanket freeze on federal funding, which will remain in effect until the court rules on a motion for a preliminary injunction.

Governor Murphy stated, "In New Jersey, we will not stand by in the face of unlawful and unconstitutional federal action that threatens our residents." He emphasized that the decision ensures continued access to essential services for millions of Americans, including law enforcement protection, meal programs, and health care options.

Attorney General Platkin remarked on the significance of the court's decision: "Our victory in court is a reminder to the Trump Administration that they cannot trample on the Constitution and the laws of our country and expect to get away with it." He highlighted that this legal win protects Medicaid enrollees, Head Start recipients, law enforcement, and numerous New Jerseyans whose access to government services was at risk.

The lawsuit contends that the Trump administration's directive violates both the U.S. Constitution and federal law by imposing new conditions on already awarded funding. Despite President Trump's withdrawal of the memo before an initial hearing, public communications suggested that the freeze remained effective. The states argued this retraction was an attempt to avoid litigation. Judge John J. McConnell agreed with this assessment, noting that rescinding did not alter the situation materially.

Judge McConnell ruled that President Trump overstepped his authority by trying to override Congressional policy decisions and failing to execute laws passed by Congress related to fund appropriation. The judge declared that "Congress has not given the Executive limitless power" to halt funds intended for specific purposes.

The funding freeze impacted programs like WIC, Head Start, LIHEAP, Medicare enrollment assistance, school meals for low-income students, veteran support initiatives, domestic violence victim assistance programs, refugee aid services, and critical public safety initiatives within New Jersey's Attorney General’s Office.

Alongside New Jersey in filing were Arizona, California, Colorado, Connecticut, Delaware, Hawaii, Illinois, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Nevada, New Mexico, New York, North Carolina, Oregon Rhode Island Vermont Washington Wisconsin and District of Columbia.