The lawsuit filed by New York and 18 other states against the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) is raising eyebrows. The states claim that HHS’s recent overhaul is not just problematic but downright illegal, violating both federal law and the Constitution. New York Attorney General Letitia James didn’t mince words, stating that these cuts “defy Congress’s authority.”
In a virtual news conference, James emphasized the urgency of the situation. The lawsuit is calling for the court to stop what she describes as the “unlawful dismantling” of HHS. The states want to prevent mass firings and restore crucial programs that many Americans rely on.
The lawsuit was officially filed in federal court in New York. An HHS spokesperson responded to the allegations, arguing that the department has been following the law. According to the spokesperson, every step in the process has been “deliberate, collaborative, and consistent with federal personnel policy.”
Adding more context, the HHS overhaul was announced by Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. back in March. The department plans to cut 10,000 jobs, on top of the 10,000 already gone. Kennedy claims these changes aim to make HHS more efficient and effective.
The mass terminations have reportedly left some federal health agencies struggling. Early April termination notices indicated that several programs and offices would be cut or reduced. According to the lawsuit, these changes prevent the agencies from fulfilling their legal obligations.
For example, the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health is now unable to certify respiratory equipment. Their website states that due to the layoffs, “no new respirator approval applications can be accepted.” This is a major concern for states that need respiratory equipment for healthcare facilities.
The lawsuit also targets the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for not meeting federal requirements. The FDA missed a deadline to decide on Novavax’s COVID-19 vaccine license application. Now, Novavax must conduct a clinical trial to receive the license.
States like California, Maryland, Connecticut, and Delaware are also part of the lawsuit. The District of Columbia has joined the 19 states in this legal battle. The attorneys general argue that these cuts have left the World Trade Center Health Program understaffed and unable to certify illnesses.
Gary Smiley, a former paramedic and 9/11 first responder, spoke about the impact. He highlighted how new cancer patients entering the program haven’t been able to get certified for coverage. While there are claims that certifications are restarting, Smiley remains skeptical.
This legal action coincides with President Donald Trump’s proposed budget. His plan includes a $500 million investment in Kennedy’s Make America Healthy Again initiative. However, it also proposes $32 million in cuts to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and other health agencies.
Congress still has to review and approve the budget. With Republicans holding slim majorities in both the House and Senate, any changes will be closely watched. The outcome of this lawsuit and budget proposal could have significant implications.
The states are clearly worried about the immediate and long-term effects of these cuts. They argue that essential programs and services are at risk. As legal proceedings unfold, the stakes remain high for many Americans relying on these services.
