February 4, 2025
2 min read
Trump EPA Spending Freeze Persists Despite Legal Orders
Federal judges ordered the Trump administration to end the spending freeze, affecting crucial Environmental Protection Agency grants under the Inflation Reduction Act, yet states and nonprofits remain unable to access funds.
Grid Alternatives employees hoist a solar panel as they install no-cost solar panels on the rooftop of a low-income household on Oct. 19, 2023, in Pomona, California.
CLIMATEWIRE | Despite legal orders, the Trump administration maintains a freeze on essential climate and infrastructure grants. Nonprofits and state agencies remain unable to access grant awards from the Environmental Protection Agency, supported by the Inflation Reduction Act.
U.S. District Judge Loren AliKhan reaffirmed her order Monday. However, the EPA continues to halt payments, affecting major programs such as the $5 billion Climate Pollution Reduction Grant.
The freeze affects other agencies like the Agriculture and Energy departments. “People can’t access funding,” said Jillian Blanchard, from Lawyers for Good Government. This administrative inaction is impacting grant recipients who, facing delays, are funding payroll and other expenses out of pocket.
The Justice Department acknowledged AliKhan’s order but highlighted potential intrusions on governmental powers. EPA’s acting General Counsel, Sean Donahue, sent internal communication promising guidance, which hasn’t been delivered. The EPA and DOJ declined further comment on why funds are frozen, leaving uncertainties about compliance with legal directives.
Zealan Hoover, former director at Biden’s EPA, voiced concerns over the freeze forcing layoffs and stalling projects. Blanchard warned the executive might disregard the court’s order altogether.
Reprinted from E&E News with permission from POLITICO, LLC. Copyright 2025. E&E News provides essential news for energy and environment professionals.
