New York Attorney General Letitia James is spearheading a coalition of 19 states in a federal lawsuit aimed at halting the Trump administration’s recent directive that threatens to cut billions in education funding unless schools dismantle diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) programs. The lawsuit, filed in late April 2025, contends that the administration’s actions are unconstitutional and jeopardize critical resources for students across the nation.
The Trump administration’s directive, issued on April 3, 2025, mandates that state education agencies certify within ten days that they do not engage in “illegal” DEI practices to continue receiving federal education funding. Failure to comply could result in the loss of substantial federal support. In New York, this could imperil approximately $13.8 billion in federal education funds, which are vital for programs serving low-income students, students with disabilities, and English language learners.
New York’s public education system relies heavily on federal funding to supplement state and local resources. In the 2024-2025 fiscal year, the state allocated $35.9 billion to General Support for Public Schools, with $24.9 billion designated as Foundation Aid. The potential loss of federal funds would significantly disrupt the state’s ability to provide equitable education opportunities.
The coalition’s lawsuit argues that the Trump administration’s directive violates the Administrative Procedure Act and Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964. It asserts that the federal government cannot impose vague or unlawful conditions on Congressionally appropriated funding. Moreover, many DEI programs are legally required to protect students’ rights under federal law.
Attorney General James emphasized the importance of inclusive education, stating, “Every student has the fundamental right to learn in an environment that is welcoming and open to everyone.” She further criticized the administration’s actions as an overreach that undermines civil rights protections in education.
This lawsuit is part of a broader pattern of legal challenges against the Trump administration’s policies on education and civil rights. In March 2025, a group of Democratic attorneys general, led by James, filed a lawsuit to block significant cuts to the Department of Education, arguing that the reductions would have “devastating effects” on states that rely on federal education funding.
Additionally, the administration’s efforts to eliminate DEI programs have faced legal setbacks. On April 24, 2025, federal judges in Maryland, New Hampshire, and Washington, D.C., ruled that the administration had overstepped its authority by ordering schools to cease DEI programs, citing concerns over free speech and the lack of clear guidance.
The administration’s directive has already begun to affect local communities. For instance, William Floyd High School in Shirley, Long Island, faces the potential loss of over $13 million in federal funding due to its support of a transgender student’s participation in girls’ sports, which conflicts with the administration’s policies.
Such cases highlight the tangible consequences of federal policy shifts on individual schools and students. The threat of funding cuts places additional pressure on school districts to navigate complex legal and ethical considerations while striving to provide inclusive and equitable education.
The legal battle led by Attorney General Letitia James represents a significant stand against federal overreach into state education policies. As the lawsuit progresses, its outcome will have profound implications for the future of DEI programs and the distribution of federal education funding across the United States.
For more information on the lawsuit and its developments, visit the New York Attorney General’s official website.
