A federal judge has mandated the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) to reinstate approximately $12 million in funding to the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP). The funding includes support for rural healthcare and early identification of disabilities in children.
U.S. District Judge Beryl Howell issued the preliminary injunction, supporting AAP's assertion that evidence indicated HHS likely acted with a "retaliatory motive" when it ended the grants in December. The judge clarified that the case concerns the federal government's exercise of power and potential efforts to suppress public health policy discussions, rather than specific policy disagreements on vaccinations or gender-affirming care.
The seven grants that were terminated in December supported various public health initiatives. These included programs aimed at preventing sudden unexpected infant death, enhancing pediatric care in rural communities, and assisting teenagers with substance use and mental health challenges.
AAP contended that the funding cuts were in response to the group's public opposition to the administration's stances and actions. HHS maintained that the grants were discontinued because they no longer aligned with the department's objectives and denied AAP's allegations of retaliation.
The AAP has publicly advocated for pediatric vaccines and gender-affirming care, positions that have diverged from those articulated by HHS. The judge stated that AAP demonstrated it would likely face significant harm from the cuts and that the public interest favored the continuation of these programs as the lawsuit proceeds.
Skye Perryman, President and CEO of Democracy Forward, representing AAP, stated that the ruling underscores that administrations cannot suppress medical professionals, undermine public health, or jeopardize children's well-being. HHS representatives declined to comment on the ruling.