Maryland Schools to Receive Full Federal Funding After Legal Victory

According to the Maryland Attorney General’s Office, Maryland schools are set to receive the complete amount of federal education funding that had been previously withheld, following a legal challenge. The state secured an agreement that mandates the release of the remaining funds by October 3, 2025. This resolution comes after Attorney General Anthony G. Brown joined a multistate coalition in suing the Trump administration over its decision to freeze funding for six long-standing federal education programs, an action that occurred shortly before the start of the school year.

In Maryland, approximately $110 million in federal education funding was frozen, impacting crucial programs designed to support after-school and summer learning initiatives, teacher preparation, and services for English language learners. While the Trump administration released an initial portion of the frozen funds shortly after the lawsuit was filed, the recent agreement ensures that the full balance will now be disbursed. The multistate coalition and the Trump administration have jointly filed to dismiss the case, signifying a complete resolution that aligns with the relief sought by the plaintiffs. These federal funds are essential for the state’s K-12 schools and adult education programs, providing resources vital for student preparation and development.

The freeze, implemented on June 30, affected a range of programs administered by the U.S. Department of Education. For decades, these programs have been instrumental in supporting diverse educational services across states, including educational initiatives for migrant children and English learners. Additionally, they have funded efforts to promote effective classroom instruction, improve school environments, facilitate the integration of technology in education, and operate community learning centers offering academic and extracurricular enrichment. The funding also supports adult education and workforce development programs.

The lawsuit, filed on July 14, argued that the funding freeze violated federal statutes and regulations governing these programs, as well as federal budgeting processes and constitutional principles of separation of powers. Following the lawsuit, Maryland received notification that the U.S. Department of Education would begin releasing the previously impounded federal funds starting the week of July 28. Grant Award Notifications subsequently confirmed the release of all funds that were due to be made available to the states on July 1. The agreement to release the remaining funds brings a close to this legal dispute, providing certainty for the continuation of these vital educational services.

Article by Mel Anara, based upon information from the Maryland Attorney General’s Office

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