Trump’s Budget Office Freezing Federal Funds Unlawful, Creating Chaos and Confusion for Millions of People Who Rely on Critical Nutrition and Essential Programs
WASHINGTON, January 28, 2025 — Last evening, President Trump’s Office of Management and Budget issued memorandum M-25-13, freezing federal financial assistance to states, families, and communities, effective 5 p.m. Eastern today, Tuesday, January 28. This action is a clear violation of the law, as the president does not have the authority to withhold appropriated funds. Congress has enacted several laws to prevent such overreach, including the Appropriations Clause, the Purpose Statute, and the Impoundment Control Act. It also undermines the constitutional principle of checks and balances.