A federal judge has intervened in favor of AmeriCorps, ordering the restoration of programs in Washington, DC, and 24 Democratic-led states amidst ongoing litigation against recent funding cuts. According to the court order, the Trump administration must reinstate the grants that were terminated and return AmeriCorps and VISTA members to their programs. This decision restores the status quo prior to grant terminations that occurred on April 25, 2025.
The lawsuit, originally filed by these states and the District of Columbia, claims the Corporation for National and Community Service, which operates as AmeriCorps, faced significant layoffs and funding cuts imposed by the Trump Administration and the Department of Government Efficiency. The plaintiffs argue that these actions overstepped the administrative domain, violating the Administrative Procedure Act by not engaging in the required notice-and-comment rulemaking procedure.
In her order, US District Court Judge Deborah Boardman highlighted the likelihood of violation of the Administrative Procedure Act and noted the potential for irreparable harm should the injunction not be granted. According to America’s Service Commissions, AmeriCorps plays a crucial role in promoting service and civic engagement across various communities, especially those underserved.
Despite the defendant’s attempt to stay the order, their request was denied. They are now required to provide a status report to the court by June 10, detailing the efforts made to restore AmeriCorps programs and funding, as mandated by the preliminary injunction. The ongoing legal battle underscores the contentious dynamics between state administrations and federal governance concerning the allocation and management of public service programs.