Rhode Island Court Strikes Down Trump’s Funding Cuts to Libraries and Museums

The Rhode Island District Court has issued a temporary injunction against an executive order aimed at dismantling three federal agencies integral to public services. The order, titled “Continuing the Reduction of the Federal Bureaucracy,” faced opposition from a coalition of 21 Democratic attorneys general who argued it overstepped presidential authority.

The agencies in question, including the Institute of Museum and Library Services, the Minority Business Development Agency, and the Federal Mediation and Conciliation Service, are responsible for providing essential grants and funding across various sectors. These organizations, established by Congress, are bound by law to fulfill their responsibilities, which include supporting libraries, museums, and minority-owned businesses.

Chief U.S. District Judge John McConnell Jr. determined that the executive order violated the Administrative Procedures Act and the separation of powers. In a 49-page opinion, he stated, “This court is once again faced with a legal challenge against an executive order that attempts to dismantle congressionally sanctioned agencies.”

This ruling represents a significant setback for Trump’s efforts to minimize federal oversight and authority. In weighing the potential harm to the agencies and public interest, McConnell Jr. found the states had a strong likelihood of success in their case against the order’s requirements.

The administration contended that the actions undertaken in response to the executive order were not final decisions, which would exempt them from judicial review. However, the court rejected this argument, affirming the necessity of examining the order’s implications.

In the wake of the executive order, the agencies reported drastic staff reductions of 80-90%, halting grant processing and distributions. Notification emails sent to state librarians indicated that the agency could not respond to inquiries due to staff cuts. Additionally, over 1,000 grants were terminated without detailed justification, citing a misalignment with the agency’s priorities.

McConnell Jr. remarked on the disproportionate staffing levels remaining at the agencies, casting doubt on their capability to meet statutory duties effectively. Rhode Island Attorney General Peter F. Neronha highlighted the broader impact of these cuts, stating, “By unlawfully attacking these agencies, they are attempting to stifle the American dream. We won’t let them, and neither should you.”

While the decision offers some respite to affected sectors, numerous other lawsuits challenging similar executive actions remain active. Recent judicial rulings have blocked several of Trump’s funding cuts, notably in biomedical research and green energy grants. These legal challenges continue to shape the landscape of federal authority and funding distribution.