Advocacy groups are taking legal action against the Trump Administration, challenging its efforts to dismantle the United States Department of Education. The lawsuit, set to be filed on Monday, involves organizations such as the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP), the National Education Association (NEA), and AFSCME Maryland Council 3. These groups are supported by Student Defense and the Education Law Center (ELC).
The complaint argues that since January 20, 2025, actions taken by Trump Administration officials amount to a “de facto dismantling” of the Department through executive orders and staff reductions. On March 11, a significant reduction in force was instituted by Secretary Linda McMahon, cutting the workforce in half. A subsequent executive order signed by President Donald Trump on March 20 directed steps toward closing the Department and transferring its functions to other federal agencies.
Plaintiffs argue that these actions exceed constitutional authority and violate the Administrative Procedure Act. They seek an immediate halt to these measures. Mara Greengrass, a plaintiff from Maryland, expressed concern over cuts affecting special education services vital for her child.
Becky Pringle, NEA President, criticized the administration’s moves as detrimental to students’ success and opportunities. Derrick Johnson of NAACP highlighted potential harm to vulnerable communities due to workforce reductions at the Department.
AFSCME Council 3 President Patrick Moran emphasized Congress’s role in controlling the Department’s future and warned against bypassing elected representatives. Robert Kim from ELC noted potential chaos in public schools if federal support is disrupted.
Student Defense President Aaron Ament said that attempts to close the Department without Congressional approval constitute a violation of law with significant impacts on students and families.
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