AG James Blocks Trump’s Attack on Federal Agencies

New York – A court order has been issued by the United States District Court for the District of Rhode Island, halting a Trump administration Executive Order aimed at dismantling critical federal agencies. Attorney General Letitia James led a coalition in this lawsuit to protect the Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS), the Minority Business Development Agency (MBDA), and the Federal Mediation and Conciliation Service (FMCS).

The order comes after AG James co-led a coalition of 20 other attorneys general in April, filing a lawsuit against the Trump administration. The court’s preliminary injunction effectively stops the dismantling process for now.

‘These agencies provide critical support to help minority-owned businesses, protect workers’ rights, and ensure our libraries and museums continue to serve our communities,’ said AG James. ‘The administration’s attack on these agencies is illegal, and today we put a stop to it.’

The Executive Order targeted IMLS, which supports museums and libraries through grantmaking, research, and policy development; MBDA, promoting minority-owned businesses; and FMCS, which resolves labor disputes peacefully. The lawsuit claims dismantling these agencies would severely impact communities that rely on them.

In 2024, IMLS invested $180 million in libraries nationwide, with New York receiving over $8 million. This funding helped literacy programs, library staff training, internet access improvements, and paid salaries for two-thirds of New York State Library employees. The injunction preserves these vital services.

The court ruled that the Executive Order violates the Administrative Procedure Act and disregards the Constitution by attempting to dismantle agencies established and funded by law. This lawsuit is led by AG James and the attorneys general of Rhode Island, Hawaii, and several other states.

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