A federal judge has blocked the Trump administration’s attempt to shut down three federal agencies, ruling that the executive branch cannot unilaterally dismantle entities created and funded by Congress.
The agencies in question—the Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS), the Minority Business Development Agency (MBDA), and the Federal Mediation and Conciliation Service (FMCS)—were targeted as part of a broader push to streamline the federal government. However, the court found that the administration overstepped its authority.
U.S. District Judge John McConnell issued a preliminary injunction, asserting that only Congress has the constitutional power to eliminate agencies it established. The judge emphasized that executive action cannot override legislative authority when it comes to controlling federal structures and spending.
Each of the three agencies plays a significant role in public service:
- IMLS provides support and funding for libraries and museums nationwide.
- MBDA assists minority-owned businesses with access to capital, contracts, and development programs.
- FMCS serves as a mediator in labor disputes, helping prevent strikes and maintain workplace stability.
The decision reinforces legal boundaries on presidential power and affirms the role of the judiciary in checking executive overreach. It also ensures the continued operation of programs serving educational institutions, minority entrepreneurs, and labor relations across the country.