President Trump’s order to pause federal climate spending has delayed billions in grants, stalling home repairs, clean energy projects and factory construction across the country, including in Republican-led states.
Lisa Friedman and Brad Plumer report for The New York Times.
In short:
- A federal funding freeze has halted grants for home repairs, solar projects and pollution cleanup, affecting rural and low-income communities.
- The stoppage has left agencies, school districts and companies uncertain about ongoing projects, leading to layoffs and stalled construction.
- A federal judge ruled against blocking some funds, but agencies remain unsure when spending will resume.
Key quote:
“These are real human beings. We have one woman in her 80s who lives alone, and if she does not get her roof fixed, well, we’re going to have a senior in her late 80s who is homeless.”
— Warren Tidwell, director of the Alabama Center for Rural Organizing and Systemic Solutions
Why this matters:
The spending freeze threatens jobs, energy investments and disaster recovery in vulnerable communities. The uncertainty comes as many projects launched under the Inflation Reduction Act — former President Biden’s signature climate and energy law — have funneled billions into Republican-led districts, spurring economic activity in regions historically dependent on fossil fuels. Yet despite the clear benefits, political hesitation to challenge the Trump administration's freeze remains strong.
Related: Federal funding freeze could disrupt disaster relief and environmental programs
