US States Sue Funding Reductions in STEM Research
Sixteen US states, including New York, California, and Illinois, have filed a lawsuit challenging sweeping cuts to federal science funding under the Trump administration. The legal action aims to block limits placed on National Science Foundation (NSF) funding and the removal of diversity programmes in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM).
Filed on Wednesday in Manhattan federal court, the lawsuit argues that the administration lacks the authority to cap funding or eliminate initiatives mandated by Congress. The states claim these changes will undermine American leadership in scientific research.
Lawsuit Follows Broader Pushback Against Research Funding Cuts
Earlier in the month, 13 leading universities sued over a similar NSF policy. That case contested a cap on indirect cost reimbursements—such as expenses for lab space and equipment—set at 15%. The NSF’s move mirrors budget reductions at the National Institutes of Health and the Department of Energy, which have faced legal injunctions.
The new lawsuit also opposes the removal of programmes promoting the inclusion of women, minorities and people with disabilities in STEM fields. States argue these efforts are vital for maintaining a diverse, innovative scientific workforce.
States Warn of Economic and Academic Harm
The states warned that the proposed cuts could lead to layoffs, cancelled research, and the shutdown of critical infrastructure. “Institutions will not be able to maintain essential research infrastructure,” the suit states. “Numerous projects will be abandoned.”
New York Attorney General Letitia James, a Democrat, said the cuts would harm both the economy and national security. She emphasised that NSF-funded science powers everyday technologies, from MRI machines to barcode scanners.
The White House has proposed slashing NSF’s $8.8 billion budget by over 55% and intends to downsize the agency significantly. The NSF declined to comment on the legal action, and the White House has not issued a response.
James’ office revealed that New York universities alone received $104 million in NSF funds last year, supporting work in microelectronics, climate science and battery innovation.
The states contend that the funding cap and the removal of diversity initiatives are “arbitrary and capricious,” violating federal law and the constitutional separation of powers by overriding decisions reserved for Congress.
with inputs from Reuters