Judge Blocks Trump’s ‘Pause’ on Grants, Loans
A federal judge on Tuesday evening blocked President Donald Trump’s policy that directed agencies to pause federal grants so they can be reviewed to see if they fit the president’s priorities. The announcement, which initially caused widespread confusion and even panic among both bureaucrats and everyday Americans, had been set to go into effect Tuesday evening.
What to know: Judge Loren AliKhan ordered the Trump administration not to halt grant funding until at least Feb. 3. However, AliKhan said the ruling does not block the Trump administration from freezing new programs or require it to restart funding that has already ended.
Legal action: The ruling comes after a coalition of advocacy groups asked for a temporary restraining order to prevent what they argue would be a “catastrophic” event for nonprofits and the communities they serve. Six Democratic-led states are also fighting the memo.
Social security, student loans not affected: The pause was not going to affect assistance going directly to individuals. The White House said Social Security and Medicare benefits or food stamps weren’t included in the pause. The Department of Education said direct student loans and Pell Grants wouldn’t be stopped amid the broad federal funding freeze. Some student loan programs to be reviewed.
