A coalition of municipalities and public sector workers has secured an injunction against the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) to prevent the termination of federal grants essential for pandemic prevention. The municipalities involved include Harris County, Texas; Columbus, Ohio; the Metropolitan Government of Nashville and Davidson County, Tennessee; and Kansas City, Missouri. They are supported by the American Federation of State, County, and Municipal Employees (AFSCME).
The court’s decision halts the HHS’s plan to cut funding that supports local efforts in combating infectious diseases. However, a nationwide injunction was not granted, though future relief could be extended.
The lawsuit was filed in April under the case name Harris County et al. v. Kennedy in the District Court for the District of Columbia. Legal representation is provided by Democracy Forward and Public Rights Project for several municipalities, while Harris County is represented by its Attorney Christian Menefee.
Christian Menefee stated, “This ruling is a win for Harris County residents and public health departments across the country.” He emphasized that federal funds are crucial for tracking disease outbreaks and providing vaccinations.
Metro Nashville’s Director of Law Wally Dietz expressed gratitude towards partners advocating for this injunction, stating it was necessary to prevent unauthorized rescindment of congressionally approved grants.
AFSCME President Lee Saunders remarked on the partial nature of the relief: “We are pleased the judge ruled that it was unlawful… however, we are disappointed by the decision to only deliver limited relief.”
The controversy began on March 24, 2025, when HHS Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. terminated over $11 billion in funding intended for public health initiatives against COVID-19 and other pandemics.
Joel McElvain from Democracy Forward highlighted ongoing health threats like a measles outbreak as reasons why maintaining these funds is critical: “The stakes here are real and immediate.”
Jill Habig from Public Rights Project noted that stopping federal power abuse is vital as local governments depend on these funds to manage health programs effectively.
Despite claims from the Trump administration linking grant cancellations to COVID-19’s end, affected programs also target other diseases like avian flu and measles.
Legal counsel from Democracy Forward includes Joel McElvain, Pooja Boisture, and Skye L. Perryman.
