New Mexico Attorney General Raúl Torrez has initiated legal action against the U.S. Department of Education, aiming to unblock over $6 billion in education funding, including nearly $45 million designated for New Mexico schools. The lawsuit was filed this week, challenging what Torrez describes as an unlawful withholding of funds critical for programs supporting English language learners, teacher development, migrant children, and afterschool initiatives for low-income students.
The federal freeze is already affecting New Mexico communities as school officials struggle to prepare for the upcoming fall semester without access to these funds. Local educators and program leaders gathered in Santa Fe to highlight the impact on students and staff. "This isn’t about politics or bureaucracy—it’s about working families and kids," said Attorney General Raúl Torrez. He emphasized that withholding these funds is not only illegal but also detrimental to community and economic stability.
Education leaders from across New Mexico expressed their concerns in Santa Fe. Kristie Medina, Superintendent of Raton Public Schools, warned that rural districts might have to cancel essential programs without the promised federal funding. Ian Gates from the New Mexico Out-of-School Time Network stressed the importance of Title IV-B funding in keeping youth safe outside school hours. Bill Rodriguez from Santa Fe Public Schools reported delays in planning fall afterschool programs due to the funding freeze. Peter McWain noted jeopardized staff retention and curriculum planning.
Public Education Secretary Mariana Padilla provided a declaration estimating a termination of $44.7 million for the 2025–2026 school year across various programs: $1 million for migrant education (Title I-C), $18 million for teacher support (Title II-A), $5.8 million for English learner programs (Title III-A), $10.2 million for student support (Title IV-A), and $9.8 million for 21st Century Community Learning Centers (Title IV-B). These funds are mandated by law under the Every Student Succeeds Act (ESSA).
The lawsuit argues that both the Department of Education and the Office of Management and Budget lack legal authority to delay or withhold these congressionally appropriated funds, which should be available by July 1 each year.
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