A federal appeals court has temporarily blocked the Trump administration’s plan to overhaul the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), siding with 19 Democratic-led states and the District of Columbia. The Boston-based 1st U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals upheld a lower court injunction, preventing immediate job cuts and restructuring across key agencies, including the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the Office of Head Start.
The plan, announced in March by Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr., aimed to cut 10,000 jobs, merge divisions, and close half of HHS’ regional offices. Supporters claimed the restructuring would improve efficiency, while opponents warned it would disrupt essential services. State officials argued that the cuts already led to infectious disease lab closures, abandoned research, and threatened early childhood programs.
In July, U.S. District Judge Melissa DuBose ruled that the administration lacked authority to implement such sweeping changes, halting the reorganization at four agencies, including the FDA’s Center for Tobacco Products. The appeals court agreed, noting that states depend heavily on HHS for infectious disease testing, maternal and infant health data, and public health programs.
The Trump administration argued the lawsuit was speculative and that challenges should come from federal employees through the Merit Systems Protection Board. However, the court said the states demonstrated real and immediate harm, rejecting the government’s position.
The dispute underscores the legal and political battle over federal agency power and the limits of executive authority. For now, the administration cannot move forward with its HHS overhaul, leaving the future of the restructuring plan uncertain as the case continues through the courts.