DOVER, Del. — Delaware’s Attorney General Kathy Jennings joined leaders from 22 other states, plus the governors of Kentucky and Pennsylvania, Thursday to expand their legal challenge against the White House Office of Management and Budget (OMB). They accuse the agency of illegally withholding millions in federal funds meant to support AmeriCorps programs. This lawsuit follows a previous court ruling that reversed the abrupt cancellation of many AmeriCorps initiatives. Despite the decision, OMB continues to restrict payments crucial to programs that provide community assistance, mentorship, and disaster relief. The coalition argues these cuts risk the survival of important services across multiple states.
AmeriCorps programs in Delaware alone involve over 1,300 participants who serve in hundreds of local sites such as schools, food banks, and veterans’ centers. Key programs under threat include the Foster Grandparent and Senior Companion initiatives, which have a longstanding history of pairing seniors with youth or other adults in need. The legal complaint highlights that OMB’s actions violate federal regulations and the constitutional separation of powers by blocking funds that Congress has approved. The coalition warns that this undermines established public service programs and the communities they support. Joining Delaware in this lawsuit are the attorneys general of Maryland, California, Colorado, and 19 additional states, signaling widespread opposition to the federal budget office’s funding restrictions.
Photo: Attorney General Kathy Jennings | attorneygeneral.delaware.gov