Wilmington, Del. — Delaware has joined a coalition of states in a lawsuit challenging the U.S. Department of Education and the Office of Management and Budget over the withholding of more than $6 billion in funding for K-12 and adult education programs. Attorney General Kathy Jennings and Secretary of Education Mark Holodick are leading Delaware’s involvement in the legal action, which was filed Tuesday in the U.S. District Court for the District of Rhode Island.
The lawsuit argues that the federal government’s decision to freeze the funds violated established laws and procedures. Officials say the withheld funds are vital for Delaware’s public schools and adult education initiatives, supporting thousands of students and educators across the state.
The lawsuit contends that diverting these resources jeopardizes education programs and disrupts state budgets. “Delaware is committed to protecting funding that directly benefits our students and communities,” Jennings said in a statement. “We will hold federal agencies accountable for following the law.” The coalition of states seeks a court order requiring the restoration of the withheld funds and preventing similar actions in the future. The Department of Education has not commented on the lawsuit.
photo: Delaware.gov