WASHINGTON — A coalition aiming to halt President Donald Trump’s plans to dismantle the U.S. Department of Education has expanded its lawsuit. This lawsuit now includes objections to interagency agreements that plan to transfer some of the department’s duties to other Cabinet-level agencies. Unions, school districts, and a prominent disability rights group joined forces to contest these changes, citing potential harm to students.
The controversial agreements, announced on Nov. 18, involve shifting educational responsibilities to the departments of Labor, Interior, Health and Human Services, and State. This move sparked immediate backlash from Democratic officials, labor unions, and advocacy groups. Critics argue that these changes could negatively impact students, families, and schools due to questionable legality and reduced program efficiency.
The coalition, represented by Democracy Forward, stated in the amended complaint that dispersing Education Department programs across agencies lacking educational expertise diminishes program effectiveness. The lawsuit seeks declaratory and injunctive relief, highlighting the administration’s “unlawful effort” to dismantle the department, citing mass layoffs and an executive order urging Education Secretary Linda McMahon to close her department.
Despite these plans, the Education Department asserts that it will retain all statutory responsibilities and maintain oversight of its programs. Trump’s initiative to scale back the 46-year-old department aims to return education control to the states, where much funding and oversight already occur.
Axing the Education Department
The original lawsuit, filed in March in Massachusetts federal court, was initiated by various unions, including the American Federation of Teachers and the Service Employees International Union, alongside two Massachusetts school districts. The Arc of the United States, an advocacy group for individuals with disabilities, has now been added as a plaintiff.
In May, a federal judge issued a preliminary injunction blocking the administration’s efforts, including layoffs affecting over 1,300 employees and a directive to shift some services to other agencies. A federal appeals court upheld this order in June, leading the administration to seek intervention from the Supreme Court.
Supreme Court temporarily greenlit Trump plan
In July, the U.S. Supreme Court temporarily lifted lower court orders, allowing the administration to continue with its dismantling plans. This development underscores the ongoing legal battle over the future of the Education Department.
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