Key Takeaways
- Maine has dropped a lawsuit against the USDA concerning federal nutrition funds after a settlement agreement.
- The USDA agreed not to interfere with Maine’s access to funds without following legal procedures.
- The lawsuit arose from a freeze on various federal nutrition grants allegedly due to Title IX violations.
Settlement Details
Maine has settled a lawsuit against the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) regarding the withholding of federal nutrition funds linked to the state’s treatment of transgender athletes. Under the terms of the settlement, the USDA has promised not to freeze or terminate Maine’s access to these funds without complying with legally mandated procedures.
The dispute began after Agriculture Secretary Brooke Rollins informed Maine Governor Janet Mills about the fund freeze in a letter dated April 2, where she claimed the state violated Title IX regulations. The funds impacted included approximately $97,085 for the Child and Adult Care Food Program, $469,655 in state operations, $917,023 for Child Nutrition Technology Innovation Grants, $37,544 for National School Lunch Program Equipment Assistance Grants, and $592,838 for Farm to School State Formula Grants.
Following the controversy, a judge ordered the USDA on April 11 to continue processing the withheld funds, ruling that the federal agency’s actions were “contrary to law.” The judge emphasized that the USDA failed to provide the required notice and hearing before taking action against the funds.
In response to the settlement, Maine Attorney General Aaron Frey expressed his disappointment that legal action was necessary but acknowledged relief that the matter has been resolved. He underscored the importance of the federal funds for feeding children and vulnerable adults in the state.
The USDA has not commented on the settlement agreement, leaving some questions about the future handling of state funds in light of federal regulations. The resolution of this legal conflict highlights ongoing tensions regarding federal oversight and state rights, particularly in areas concerning social issues like transgender rights and nutrition programs.
This settlement allows Maine to continue receiving essential federal funding for its nutrition programs, maintaining support for its community’s health and well-being.
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