- 21 Democratic attorneys general file federal lawsuit to block mass layoffs at DOE
- Layoffs target nearly half of DOE staff, risking statutory programs like Pell Grants
- States warn of irreparable harm to disability services and Title I funding
- Lawsuit claims administration lacks authority to dismantle congressionally established agency
The legal battle over the future of the U.S. education system reached a boiling point this week as 21 states filed an emergency motion in Massachusetts federal court. The coalition, led by Democratic attorneys general, seeks an immediate injunction to stop what they characterize as the Trump administration's functional eliminationof the Education Department through workforce reductions exceeding 1,300 employees.
Education policy experts note this confrontation reflects growing tensions between state and federal education priorities. The DOE's current budget allocates $73 billion annually to critical programs, including $28 billion in Title I funding for low-income schools. Massachusetts alone receives $250 million in federal education grants annually, with 60% of that funding tied to DOE-administered programs facing potential disruption.
Historical analysis reveals this marks the most significant workforce reduction since the department's 1980 creation. Unlike the 5% staff cuts during the Reagan administration, current layoffs affect multiple divisions simultaneously. The National Assessment of Educational Progress (NAEP) program, responsible for the Nation's Report Card, has reportedly lost 85% of its staff, jeopardizing 2025 assessments.
Legal scholars highlight the case's constitutional implications. Congress established the DOE through specific statutory mandates,explains Harvard Law professor Eleanor Chang. The executive branch can't unilaterally defund congressionally approved functions through staffing cuts.The lawsuit emphasizes that 34 federal education laws require active DOE administration.
State education leaders warn of immediate consequences. Rhode Island's commissioner reports delays in processing $15 million in special education grants, while California officials cite paused civil rights investigations. The Western Interstate Commission for Higher Education projects FAFSA processing delays could impact 500,000 students if layoffs continue.
