Judge Allows IMLS Defunding Case to Proceed, Sparking Outrage
Judge Richard Leon denied the American Library Association’s request to halt the Trump administration’s defunding of the Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS), citing jurisdictional issues raised by recent Supreme Court decisions. While previously granting a temporary injunction, Leon now believes the case belongs in the Court of Federal Claims, specifically concerning contractual claims related to federal grants. This decision comes after the administration, citing an executive order, drastically reduced IMLS funding and staff, impacting grant distribution and the agency’s operations. A separate Rhode Island court order blocking the IMLS shutdown remains in effect, pending appeal by the administration.
John Q. Hosedrinker