North Carolina Joins Legal Action Against Nationwide Reduction in Education Funding
North Carolina is taking legal action against the federal government, challenging the U.S. Department of Education's decision to freeze $165 million in K-12 education funds. The lawsuit, announced by North Carolina Attorney General Jeff Jackson, argues that the Department of Education acted outside its authority by withholding funds that were already approved by Congress, causing significant harm to schools, students, and families in North Carolina.
The frozen funding affects several specific programs, including teacher professional development and preparedness training, before- and after-school programs, services for English language learners, programs for migrant students, academic enrichment programs, and community learning centers. These programs, particularly crucial for rural school districts, are projected to result in losses exceeding $300 per student in some districts, and about $18 million in cuts for areas affected by Hurricane Helene.
The lawsuit's focus remains on programs that promote effective classroom instruction, improve school conditions, and establish and expand community learning centers. North Carolina Governor Josh Stein has emphasised that education funding cuts will lead to a massive reduction in other services, beyond teaching positions.
The lawsuit does not mention any changes in the argument that it is unlawful for the Department of Education to withhold money that Congress has appropriated. Jackson has expressed concern about the impact of the cuts on public schools, particularly in rural areas, stating that they need the money to keep teachers in the classroom and ensure student safety.
The lawsuit specifically mentions programs that promote effective classroom instruction, improve school conditions, and establish and expand community learning centers offering academic and extracurricular enrichment. Schools in North Carolina are counting on these funds and, without them, will be left scrambling as students return to classrooms.
As of July 22, 2025, a portion of the frozen funds has started to be released, but the full resolution of the funding issue remains tied to ongoing legal and administrative processes. Jackson intends to take the case to court to secure funding for students, schools, and North Carolina families. The lawsuit joins 22 other states and two governors in challenging the freeze as illegal.
Sources: 1. North Carolina Sues U.S. Education Department Over Funding Freeze 2. North Carolina Attorney General Announces Lawsuit Against U.S. Department of Education Over Funding Freeze 3. North Carolina Files Lawsuit Against U.S. Department of Education Over Education Funding Cuts 4. North Carolina Education Funding Lawsuit: What You Need to Know
The lawsuit in North Carolina targets the U.S. Department of Education's decision to stop funding programs aimed at education-and-self-development, such as teacher professional development and academic enrichment programs. The political implications of this funding freeze are significant, as it affects general-news items like school conditions, student safety, and even resources for migrant students and English language learners.
