*UPDATE AS OF APRIL 4TH*:
A lawsuit was filed by 21 State Attorneys General to stop President Trump's Executive Order #14238 from dismantling 3 federal agencies that provide services and funding for museums and public libraries, mediation services, and minority business development. Specifically, the Institute of Museum and Library Services was forced to place 85% of its staff on administrative leave and cancel all open grants on 3/31/25. This lawsuit is led by the Attorneys General of New York, Hawaii, and Rhode Island and are joined by Arizona, California, Colorado, Connecticut, Delaware, Illinois, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Nevada, New Jersey, New Mexico, Oregon, Vermont, Washington state, and Wisconsin.
The lawsuit argues that the executive order violates the Constitution and the Administrative Procedure Act by eliminating the programs of agencies without any regard for the laws and regulations that govern each source of federal funding. The coalition argues that the President cannot decide unilaterally to override laws governing federal spending, and that this executive order unconstitutionally overrides Congress’ power to decide how federal funds are spent.
► Read more about this update.
► Read the IMLS reduction of staff memorandum.
*UPDATE AS OF MARCH 31ST*:
On March 31, the entire Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS) staff was placed on administrative leave.
Placing the entire staff on administrative leave raises questions about whether the agency can fulfill its legal obligations to disburse congressionally appropriated funding, leaving museums, libraries, and communities across the country at risk of losing vital resources.
This move continues to undermine the will of the American people—96% of whom want to see federal funding for museums maintained or increased and prevents American taxpayer dollars from reaching America’s communities.
*UPDATE AS OF MARCH 27TH*:
Representatives Dina Titus (NV-01) and Suzanne Bonamici (OR-01) are circulating a letter for other members of the House of Representatives to sign onto asking the Administration to reconsider the executive order that drastically reduces the Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS). Please contact your members of the House of Representatives to ask them to sign the letter. The deadline for members of Congress to sign onto the letter is the end of the day Friday, March 28.
As of March 14th
The recent Executive Order issued on March 14 threatens to drastically cut funding for the Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS), the only federal agency dedicated to supporting libraries and museums. These institutions provide essential educational programs, foster innovation, and stimulate local economies. In 2024, IMLS provided $4.9 million in grants to New Jersey alone, benefiting students, seniors, veterans, and individuals with disabilities.
We must take action to protect this vital funding. IMLS represents just 0.0046% of the federal budget, yet its impact is immense. Cutting its funding would harm cultural and educational infrastructure nationwide.
Take a stand today! Museums and libraries are community cornerstones—let’s ensure they continue to thrive!
