The Trump administration and Maine engaged in a legal battle concerning federal funding for Maine's child nutrition program. The dispute arose from a disagreement over Maine's compliance with Title IX, specifically regarding transgender athletes in school sports, following President Trump's executive order on the issue. The federal government froze funding for administrative and technological functions in Maine schools.
The frozen funds impacted the state's child nutrition program, potentially cutting off over $1.8 million in current fiscal year funds and an additional $900,000 from previous years. The program also stood to lose approximately $3 million in anticipated funds for summer meal programs.
Maine filed a lawsuit against the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) after the federal government's decision to freeze funds. A federal judge initially ordered the unfreezing of funds, finding Maine likely to succeed in its challenge. Ultimately, the Trump administration settled the lawsuit, halting its efforts to freeze funding and leading Maine to drop its legal action. Maine Attorney General Aaron Frey expressed his displeasure that a lawsuit was necessary to secure the legally obligated funds.
The settlement ensured the continued flow of federal funds to Maine's child nutrition program, preventing disruptions to the feeding of children and vulnerable adults. The settlement avoided further litigation and restored vital funding to the program.