The Trump administration has agreed to end its freeze on funding for Maine's child nutrition program. This follows a lawsuit filed by Maine after the administration threatened to withhold funds due to the state's policy allowing transgender girls to participate in girls' sports. The settlement ensures the continuation of funding for approximately 172,000 children.
Maine's Governor Janet Mills had publicly challenged the administration's threat, stating that the state would see them in court. A federal judge sided with Maine, ordering the funds to be unfrozen. Maine's lawsuit resulted in the USDA agreeing to refrain from interfering with Maine's access to federal funds based on alleged Title IX violations without following proper legal procedures. Maine withdrew their lawsuit upon reaching the settlement.
The frozen funds amounted to over $1.8 million for the current fiscal year, plus more than $900,000 in prior-year funds and roughly $3 million anticipated for the summer meal program.
The settlement does not impact a separate ongoing lawsuit against Maine's Department of Education regarding its policy on transgender athletes. Governor Mills expressed confidence that Maine will also prevail in that case.
Governor Mills celebrated the victory, emphasizing her commitment to resist what she characterized as bullying tactics by the Trump administration. She highlighted the importance of defending states' rights.