Oregon lawmakers condemn Trump's federal funding freeze
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Oregon leaders condemned the Trump administration's temporary freeze on federal grants and loans on Tuesday, shortly before a federal judge blocked the funding pause from taking effect for now.
The big picture: The planned funding pause has caused widespread confusion on how it could impact local programs, services and agencies, like police and fire departments, as well as public health initiatives that depend on federal dollars.
- Oregon joined 21 other states and D.C. in a lawsuit against the administration over the directive, which was set to take effect 5pm Tuesday.
What they're saying: "This cruel order will force schools, hospitals, food banks, and other community organizations to stop offering vital services," Sen. Jeff Merkley said in a statement. "President Trump just pulled the rug out from under our communities."
- U.S. Rep. Maxine Dexter echoed Merkley's frustration, saying in a press release that it's a "betrayal" for Oregonians who have "planned around these programs and funding."
- At a press conference Tuesday afternoon, Gov. Tina Kotek said some state agencies and community partners, like the Oregon Health Authority, Head Start providers and the Department of Early Learning and Childcare couldn't access federal systems that allow them to seek reimbursement.
- "This is a challenge for us to continue to provide services," she said. "It's a dereliction of the federal government's duty to protect Americans."
Zoom in: For example, Multnomah County budgeted $280 million in federal grant funds for this fiscal year, spokesperson Julie Sullivan-Springhetti told Axios.
- That money goes directly to programs aimed at preventing drug overdoses, replacing roads and bridges, and supporting family caregivers.
Yes, but: How the potential freeze will shake out remains uncertain.
- The White House has already walked back part of its initial directive, saying in a memo "the pause does not apply across-the-board," and that Medicare and SNAP benefits will continue.