Rep. Thomas Massie (R-KY) has put forward an amendment that could potentially bolster President Donald Trump's authority to enforce a funding freeze on social service programs in five states. On Wednesday, Massie, known for his critical stance on President Trump's spending and policy decisions, announced his legislative move in response to concerns over fraud within federal programs.
The amendment aims to provide President Trump with the legislative power to override a federal judge's decision that temporarily blocked the withholding of $10.6 billion in aid to California, New York, Minnesota, Illinois, and Colorado. These states, according to the administration, have not met federal anti-fraud standards in managing key social service programs.
This situation unfolded after U.S. District Judge Arun Subramanian granted a 14-day temporary restraining order on January 9th at the request of the aforementioned states. This order put a pause on the funding freeze, pending the court's decision on a more permanent injunction.
Massie justified his proposal by pointing to verified fraud cases, particularly in Minnesota's daycare centers, and highlighted the need for accountability in a social media post. He stated, "After rampant fraud was uncovered at daycare centers in Minnesota and elsewhere, a judge blocked President Trump’s effort to put guardrails on those programs. I’ve offered this amendment to circumvent the judge’s ruling and empower the President to withhold fraudulent funds."
The funding in question spans across three major federal streams: the Child Care and Development Fund (CCDF), which provides childcare subsidies to families that qualify; the Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF), which offers cash assistance and services to low-income households; and the Social Services Block Grant (SSBG), which funds a variety of state-administered social programs, including foster care, childcare, and protective services.
The Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) estimates that the freeze could affect approximately $2.4 billion in CCDF funds, $7.35 billion in TANF, and $869 million in SSBG allocations across the five states. Reports from the HHS Office of Inspector General and a 2025 review by the Government Accountability Office (GAO) indicate that these programs are susceptible to misuse due to incomplete documentation and oversight gaps.
HHS Secretary Robert Kennedy Jr. defended the administration's stance, framing the freeze as a necessary measure for accountability and not a political maneuver. "The best way to help families is to prevent fraud so that funds reach those truly in need," Kennedy said, as reported by The Blaze. "Without a workable plan from the states, we cannot continue funding unchecked."
The states involved argue that the freeze violates the Constitution, maintaining that federal action should not be based solely on allegations without judicial validation. With the temporary restraining order set to expire on Friday, the legality of the funding freeze remains uncertain.
This standoff underscores the tension between federal oversight and state discretion in managing social services. While opponents express concern that halting payments could disrupt programs for vulnerable families, supporters argue that previous administrations have often failed to prevent fraud, jeopardizing taxpayer dollars.
Massie's collaboration with President Trump on this issue is notable due to his typical opposition to the president in areas such as fiscal policy, defense, and executive authority. Observers suggest that Massie's support highlights the gravity of the fraud concerns and his commitment to fiscal accountability.
If Massie's amendment is passed, it would grant President Trump explicit authority to maintain the funding freeze, despite judicial challenges. This move would signal a hardline approach to federal funds management and reinforce the administration's dedication to ensuring that taxpayer money is properly utilized.
