Trump Administration Under Fire
Congress allocated $3.9 billion to the Migration and Refugee Assistance Act in 2024, and under the Impoundment Control Act, the president must formally justify any funding freezes to Congress. Yet, the lawsuit alleges that President Donald Trump has failed to provide such an explanation.
“This lawsuit challenges the State Department’s unexplained, unilateral decision to cancel a program authorized by Congress for over 40 years,” said Dhananjay Manthripragada of Gibson Dunn & Crutcher LLP, who represents the bishops.
“The abrupt cancellation has caused irreparable harm to USCCB and its partner organizations, while leaving thousands of legally admitted refugees stranded. We are optimistic the courts will intervene and allow this crucial work to continue.”
Government Silent on Allegations
A spokesperson for HHS declined to comment Wednesday, while the State Department did not immediately respond to requests for a statement.
The bishops are represented by Dhananjay Manthripragada and David Casazza of Gibson Dunn & Crutcher LLP.
Legal representation for the State Department and HHS was not immediately available.
