Social Current

The U.S. Departments of Health and Human Services and Education significantly reduced their workforce following a Supreme Court ruling that permitted the Trump Administration to proceed with its restructuring plans as litigation continues.

The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services has reduced its staff by about 25% as it tries to consolidate its 28 divisions into 15 and reduce its 10 regional offices to 5.

A limited primary injunction restricted layoffs in specific agencies, including the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the Food and Drug Administration’s Center for Tobacco Products, the Office of Head Start, and the Office of the Assistant Secretary for Planning and Evaluation.

Additionally, the Supreme Court overruled a lower court and permitted the Department of Education to proceed with its plans to terminate as many as 1,400 employees, nearly a third of its workforce.

President Trump Signs an Executive Order Addressing Homelessness

On July 24, President Trump signed an executive order, Ending Crime and Disorder on America’s Streets, redirecting federal funding to provide unhoused individuals suffering from serious mental illness or addiction with assisted outpatient treatment and care from treatment centers and similar facilities. The order redirects federal resources toward programs treating substance use. It also enables state and local governments‘ to implement “maximally flexible civil commitment, institutional treatment, and ‘step-down’ treatment standards that allow for the appropriate commitment” of unhoused individuals who are a danger to themselves or others.

Recipients of federal housing and homelessness assistance who engage in illegal practices or practice harm reduction and safe consumption efforts may have their funding frozen. The order encourages all actions, to the greatest extent permitted by law, to end support for housing first policies that deprioritize accountability and fail to promote treatment, recovery, and self-sufficiency.

The order permits recipients of federal funding for homelessness assistance to collect health-related information that the Secretary of Housing and Urban Development determines is necessary and effective to operate programs successfully. The data may then be shared with law enforcement authorities to provide appropriate care or to connect individuals with public health resources. Additionally, the order prioritizes funding for the expansion of drug and mental health courts.

Senate Appropriations Committee Approves Transportation-HUD Bills

The Senate Appropriations Committee voted 27 to 1 to approve the Fiscal Year 2026 Transportation, Housing and Urban Development, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act.

The bill significantly increases funding for rental assistance programs, including through a $1.3 billion increase for tenant-based Section 8 vouchers compared to fiscal year 2025. The bill also appropriates $30 million for new incremental vouchers available to youth within, and those aging out of, the foster care system.

The bill provides $4.5 billion for Homeless Assistance Grants, a $479 million increase above fiscal year 2025. Key allocations include $100 million toward new, permanent supportive housing, $107 million for new investments to address youth homelessness, and $52 million for new supports for survivors of domestic violence.

For further information, the U.S. Senate Committee on Appropriations published a summary of key provisions within the bill.

https://www.appropriations.senate.gov/imo/media/doc/fy26_thud_senate_bill_summary.pdf

HHS Issues Guidance Regarding DEI Initiatives to SSBG, CCDBG, and CBG Recipients

The Office of Community Services (OCS) strongly encourages all recipients of entitlement awards funded by Title XX of the Social Security Act to review all Intended Use Plans, pre-expenditure reports, and expenditures and services under these programs, including those made by subrecipients or contractors. Recipients are advised to ensure that they do not support diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives or any other initiatives that discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, national origin, or any other protected characteristic.

Likewise, the Office of Child Care (OCC) strongly encouraged all recipients of formula awards funded by the Child Care and Development Block Grant (CCDBG) Act to review all plans, services, strategies, and expenditures under these programs, including those made by subrecipients or contractors.

OCC and OCS recommend recipients take prompt action to conduct reviews for compliance with all applicable laws. Individuals are strongly encouraged to review budgets, budget justification narratives, program goals, and other materials to ensure that federal funds are not used for unlawful DEI initiatives. Expenditures found to be out of compliance with federal law may be subject to enforcement in accordance with applicable law and the terms and conditions of the award.

Congress Rescinds Public Broadcasting and Foreign Aid

Congress recently passed H.R. 4, the Rescissions Act of 2025. The bill rescinds $9 billion in previously appropriated funds, including approximately $1.1 billion for the Corporation for Public Broadcasting and $8 billion in foreign aid.

The House passed the bill by a vote of 216 to 213, and the Senate, 51 to 48.

Congressional leaders stressed the importance of public radio in offering cultural, informational, and educational programming. They also highlighted its unique ability to provide individuals with access to vital emergency alerting and reporting in times of crisis.

Moreover, the reductions in foreign aid directly impact the receipt of emergency shelter, water, health care, and family reunification for refugees and countries experiencing natural disasters and conflicts.

CMS Works to Reduce Duplicate Enrollment in Medicaid/ACA Exchange Plans

The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) is partnering with states to reduce duplicate enrollments through three key initiatives.

For Individuals Enrolled in Two or More Medicaid Programs, CMS will request that states verify eligibility.

For Individuals Enrolled in Medicaid or CHIP and a Subsidized Federally Facilitated Exchange (FFE) Plan, CMS will request that individuals disenroll from Medicaid or CHIP if no longer eligible, end their subsidy (with the option to end their coverage), or notify the Exchange that the data match is incorrect. After 30 days, the FFE will end the subsidy for individuals who still appear to be enrolled in both Medicaid or CHIP and an Exchange plan with a subsidy.

For Individuals Enrolled in Medicaid or CHIP and a Subsidized State-Based Exchange (SBE) Plan, CMS will provide SBEs with a list of individuals who are potentially enrolled in the state’s Medicaid or CHIP and a subsidized Exchange plan and ask SBEs to determine whether these individuals are dually enrolled, and if so, to implement a process, similar to the federal Exchange, to recheck eligibility. CMS will work with states to prevent individuals from losing coverage inappropriately.

U.S. Department of Education Issues a Dear Colleague Letter Regarding H.R. 1 Implementation

The U.S. Department of Education recently issued a Dear Colleague Letter outlining amendments to the Higher Education Act of 1965 through H.R. 1 that were enacted immediately.

Changes to Income Based Repayment (IBR) Plans: Borrowers no longer need to have a partial financial hardship to qualify for enrollment in an income-based repayment.

Parent PLUS Loan Repayment Options: Borrowers with a consolidation loan that repaid a Parent PLUS Loan can now enroll in an IBR plan.

Public Service Loan Forgiveness: Payments made under the newly created Repayment Assistance Plan (RAP) are eligible for the Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) program if all other eligibility criteria are met.

Borrower Defense to Repayment Regulations: The Biden Administration’s Borrower Defense to Repayment regulations are delayed for loans that originated before July 1, 2035. The regulations established a new federal standard and process for deciding whether borrowers have a legal basis to discharge their federal Direct Loans.

Closed School Loan Discharge Regulations: The Biden Administration’s Closed School Loan Discharge regulations are delayed for any loans that originated before July 1, 2035. The regulations expanded access to automatic discharges and clarified the circumstances when borrowers who reenroll in a comparable program are not eligible for a discharge.

Additionally, the letter provided notice that the Department is currently developing a schedule of loan reductions for part-time students. Reductions in the annual loan limit required by H.R. 1 will be made in proportion to the degree to which the student is not enrolled full-time, rounded to the nearest percentage point. Public comments will open later this year.

CMS Restricts Workforce and Multiyear Eligibility Waivers

The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) recently issued two letters to states detailing that the agency does not anticipate approving new or extending existing section 1115 demonstration authorities, which expand continuous eligibility. CMS also stated that it does not anticipate approving new or extending existing Medicaid-funded workforce initiatives for training or employment-related activities.

CMS highlighted the importance of the policy change to preserve these vital programs for the most vulnerable Americans by removing costly initiatives that are estimated to require more than a billion dollar investment.

HUD Terminates PAVE Task Force

The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) and the Office of Information and Regulatory Affairs (OIRA) announced the termination of the Property Appraisal and Valuation Equity (PAVE) task force. The decision aligns with a recently issued executive order, Ending Radical and Wasteful Government DEI Programs and Preferencing.

The task force was established to address systemic biases in the home appraisal process, particularly in the evaluation of properties in Black and Hispanic neighborhoods. However, HUD determined that by reducing the regulatory hurdles that lenders, appraisers, and other program participants face, the Federal Housing Administration will be better able to serve American homebuyers and homeowners.

House Judiciary Subcommittee Examines Nonprofit Misuse of Federal Funds

On July 15, the House Judiciary Subcommittee on Oversight held a hearing entitled, “How Leftist Nonprofit Networks Exploit Federal Tax Dollars to Advance a Radical Agenda.” Witnesses and representatives discussed the exploitation of federal tax dollars by nonprofits. They alleged nonprofits leveraged federal grants from the U.S. Agency for International Development and the Justice Department to fund causes fundamentally opposed to the national interests of Americans.

Witnesses emphasized the importance of transparency, highlighting the substantial amount of federal funding received. They also detailed ideological perspectives espoused by nonprofits and the promotion of initiatives misaligned with the consensus of American citizens. Witnesses offered the examples of universities, museums, public broadcasters, and USAID as key institutions.

Certain representatives highlighted the critical role of nonprofits in serving vulnerable populations, including by confronting transnational crime and supporting victims of trafficking and sexual abuse. The minority witness also highlighted the selection process and ongoing monitoring for nongovernment organizations that request and receive federal funding for programs such as law enforcement training, victim/witness assistance, and rule of law programming in countries professionalizing their criminal justice response.

Homeland Security Committee Considers Nonprofit Involvement in Immigration Challenges Through the Biden Administration

On July 16, the House Homeland Security Committee held a hearing entitled “An Inside Job: How NGOs Facilitated the Biden Border Crisis.” Representatives and witnesses discussed the vulnerability of unaccompanied minors to trafficking, exploitation, and forced labor. They stressed inadequate border security, frequency of falsified records, and a broad failure to aid and monitor unaccompanied minors properly.

Witnesses and several representatives alleged that non-government organizations misused federal funds to aid in and incentivize illegal immigration. They recommended oversight to ensure proper stewardship of federal funds and promote clear, continuous communication with local governments. Specifically, witnesses recommended a complete forensic audit of all Office of Refugee Resettlement contracts exceeding $100 million, mandated transparent public disclosures, and independent federal oversight.

Certain representatives stressed the harm of funding reductions and pauses. They highlighted the essential role of non-profits as non-political entities in serving vulnerable and marginalized communities. Representatives additionally raised concerns about the practices of U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement, including their detainment of American citizens, agents’ failure to identify themselves in arrests, and conditions of detention centers.

Senate Subcommittee Discusses Educational Choice and Literacy

On July 23, the Senate Committee on Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions’ Subcommittee on Education and the American Family held a hearing to discuss educational choice and literacy. The hearing centered family empowerment, the challenges the education system faces, and the need to support students in achieving academic success.

Certain senators and the Vice President of the Board of Education for the San Diego Unified School District expressed concern in response to the increasing privatization of K-12 education. They jointly stressed the importance of investments in evidence-based strategies and support for students with the highest needs, including those with disabilities.

Sector Updates from the Judiciary

Federal Court Upholds State Restriction of Chemical Abortions

The U.S. Court of Appeals for the Fourth Circuit determined that West Virginia is permitted to restrict access to the abortion-inducing drug, Mifepristone. The verdict isthe first federal appeals court’s ruling that Mifepristone may be subject to state restrictions prohibiting its use.

The Court of Appeals held that Congress did not specifically indicate that the U.S. Food and Drug Administration had exclusive regulatory power over the medication. Additionally, the majority stressed states’ historic and sovereign right to protect the health and safety of their citizens.

Court Pauses a Mississippi Education Law Prohibiting DEI Programs and Curriculum

The U.S. District Court for the Southern District of Mississippi temporarily blocked HB 1193, a Mississippi law that prohibits the state’s public schools and universities from teaching “divisive concepts,” determining it likely violates the First Amendment. The law also prohibits the establishment or maintenance of diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) offices, programs, trainings, or activities.

Judge Wingate determined that the law’s restrictions are excessively broad, and its vague language may be construed for arbitrary enforcement, fostering a risk that protected speech would be silenced. He also emphasized the harm that plaintiffs would experience through the threat of funding withdrawals and the pace and breadth of programmatic shutdowns.

The temporary restraining order will remain in effect until the court rules on the plaintiffs’ motion for a preliminary injunction. If the preliminary injunction is successful, the law will not be enforced while litigation is occurring.

Federal Appeals Court Upholds Constitutionality of Birthright Citizenship

The 9th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals determined that a recently issued executive order, Protecting the Meaning and Value of American Citizenship, is unconstitutional. The order denies citizenship to any individual born in the U.S. if they do not have at least one parent with permanent legal status.

The court affirmed the necessity of a nationwide preliminary injunction issued by a lower court. The majority cited the executive order’s violation of the Citizenship Clause of the Constitution, precedent from previous litigation, and decades of Executive Branch practice. U.S. Circuit Judge Bumatay dissented, arguing that the states lacked a legal right to bring the lawsuit.

Subscribe to the Policy and Advocacy Radar to receive our biweekly policy roundup, which includes commentary on issues in Social Current’s federal policy agenda, opportunities to take action, and curated news and opportunities.

The second half of 2025 will be replete with contrasts for the social sector. Opportunities to build trust, promote workplace wellness, and leverage technology will be met with serious threats from funding reductions, policy changes, and chronic workforce shortages. Navigating this reality requires a clear understanding of the forces at play.

To help you lead with confidence, Social Current’s latest report highlights the key trends that our subject matter experts and Knowledge and Insights Center staff are following closely in the third quarter of 2025:

Government affairs and advocacy including federal budget updates, and HHS reorganization and staffing cuts
Leadership & EDI including redefining and refining your EDI approach
Financial matters including leading with local funders and philanthropy’s shift to a more proactive approach
Workforce including staffing shortages and fighting burnout and healing approaches
Technology including AI-supported therapy

Download the full trend report for insight and related Social Current solutions.

Specialized Research Tools for Human and Social Services

Social Current’s Knowledge and Insights Center offers a robust resources portal, which includes a digital clearinghouse library with over 20,000 records; aggregated research and business databases; diverse topic collections and library guides; original content summarizing complex information; and coaching that helps users maximize these resources.

As you plan for 2025 and beyond, make sure you’re utilizing all the tools in your toolbox. For more information about available tools and support, visit our website or contact the Knowledge and Insights Center.

Social Current has selected LifeWorks as the 2025 Innovative Impact Award winner for its Travis County Transformation Project. Based in Austin, LifeWorks serves youth and young families—many of whom have experienced homelessness—through its housing, mental health, education, and workforce services.

The Travis County Transformation Project is a pre-arrest diversion program that deflects youth from juvenile justice into community-based respite services, case management, family counseling, and restorative healing circles to build well-being and prevent recidivism. The program is a partnership between LifeWorks, the Excellence Project, and the Travis County District Attorney’s Office. It specifically targets youth ages 15-16 who have been involved in physical conflict with caregivers, which is the most common reason youth end up in Travis County’s juvenile justice system.

Youth who agree to participate are never charged and do not touch any aspect of the traditional juvenile justice system. Instead, youth and their caregivers participate in holistic supportive services that help resolve underlying stressors that contribute to conflict, including housing instability and food insecurity, while building healthy conflict resolution skills and connecting to a broader network of community support.

“I am thrilled to recognize LifeWorks for their innovative efforts to provide community-based support as an alternative to juvenile justice involvement,” says Jody Levison-Johnson, president and CEO of Social Current. “Their results are inspiring—a testament to holistic and asset-based approaches, as well as community collaboration.”

In the first 18 months of operation, the Transformation project achieved an impressive 94% reduction in recidivism (3% for project participants compared to 49% of youth receiving traditional juvenile justice interventions). This program is an innovative approach that has been designed in collaboration with impacted youth and families to address their self-determined needs and goals. It combines the local expertise of LifeWorks and the Excellence Project with best practices from other justice diversion programs and a youth-specific adaptation of the evidence-based Circles of Peace restorative justice model.

Through additional collaboration with evaluators at The University of Texas at Austin and New York University Center for Violence and Recovery, they are documenting and evaluating approaches and producing materials for replication. The Transformation Project is actively seeking to expand its reach locally and to encourage replication in other communities.

Learn More at SPARK 2025

LifeWorks will be recognized at the SPARK 2025 conference, Oct. 20-21 in Chicago, and staff will share their expertise in a workshop about the project. Join their session to hear from LifeWorks, the Excellence Project, and the Travis County District Attorney.

Child, Family, and Community Well-Being is an area of focus for SPARK 2025 workshops. Other sessions in this focus area address building continuums of care to help youth succeed, using data to drive positive service outcomes, and cost-effective strategies for evaluation studies.

Register for SPARK 2025 by Sept. 20 to receive the early bird rate.

Through COA Accreditation, a service of Social Current, we seek to empower organizations to implement best practice standards to improve service delivery and achieve better outcomes for individuals and communities. COA Accreditation provides a framework to help organizations manage resources, incorporate best practices, and strive for continuous improvement.

We believe there is rich expertise in our field, so we ground the COA Accreditation process in our human and social services community. Our volunteer peer reviewers conduct our site visits and finalize accreditation decisions.

We are proud to spotlight the latest Volunteer of the Quarter: Lori Welcher-Miles.

About Lori Welcher-Miles

Lori Welcher-Miles is a dedicated public servant and retiree of the Illinois Department of Children and Family Services (DCFS) with over 31 years of distinguished service. During her tenure, she held multiple leadership positions, including deputy director of Intact Services, overseeing operations across Cook County and the northern, central, and southern regions under the Bureau of Operations. She also served as regional administrator of Intact Services for Cook County and the northern region and as public service administrator (PSA) for the Agency Performance Teams (APT) for four years. In addition to her DCFS service, Lori worked part-time at Timberline Knolls Residential Treatment Center, supporting girls and women on their path to lasting recovery from eating disorders, mood disorders, trauma, and substance abuse.

Since February 2000, Lori has held PSA roles encompassing broad administrative oversight, including:

Regional Supervisor, Research and Demonstration Project for the Differential Response Unit (Cook County)
Acting Project Director for Differential Response
Associate Deputy Chief for Child Protection, Bureau of Operations – Downstate
Area Administrator for Cook North Sub-Region

Lori holds a master’s in social work from Loyola University Chicago and a bachelor’s in criminal justice from Southern Illinois University Carbondale. Lori is a Licensed Social Worker (LSW), bringing professional expertise in social work to her roles.

Q&A

Who is your role model and why?

My mother has always been my greatest role model. She embodies strength, resilience, and compassion. Watching her navigate life’s challenges with grace and determination taught me the importance of hard work, integrity, and showing up for others no matter the circumstances. She didn’t just speak her values, she lived them daily, and that left a lasting impression on how I lead, serve, and carry myself personally and professionally. Her example continues to inspire me to lead with purpose and heart.

What led you to become a COA Accreditation volunteer?

My journey toward becoming a COA Accreditation peer reviewer began with the state agency where I worked. It underwent the accreditation process multiple times, and I was always invited to participate in the interview portion, which gave me a firsthand look at how COA Accreditation promotes accountability, quality improvement, and best practices across human services. That experience sparked a genuine interest in the accreditation process and its impact on service delivery. Shortly after, my manager encouraged me to consider becoming a peer reviewer. I applied in 2008 and have had the privilege of volunteering with Social Current and contributing to a mission I deeply believe in and learning from diverse agencies across the country.

What are your strongest beliefs about the value of accreditation?

I strongly believe that accreditation is a powerful tool for continuous improvement, accountability, and service excellence. It creates a structured framework that helps organizations reflect on their practices, identify gaps and build on their strengths. I also believe that ensures agencies not only meet minimum standards but strive to exceed them in ways that truly benefit the individuals and communities they serve.

What excites, surprises, and/or challenges you the most about the work you do as a COA Accreditation volunteer?

What excites me the most about being a COA Accreditation peer reviewer is the opportunity to engage with a wide variety of agencies, each of which has its own unique mission, culture, and approach to service delivery. What often surprises me is how open and transparent agencies are during the review process. The most challenging aspect is that each agency operates within different resources and policies, so its important to approach each review with empathy, fairness, and critical thinking.

Share a memorable place, person, or experience from a site visit.

One of my most memorable site visits was to Monterey, California, where I had the pleasure of working alongside two seasoned peer reviewers. They were incredibly down to earth, kind, and full of wisdom. After a full day of meaningful work, we took a walk along the beach and ended our evening with dinner on a heated patio overlooking the water. The scenery was breathtaking, and the conversation was genuine.

What advice would you give someone interested in being a COA Accreditation volunteer?

My advice is to approach the role with an open mind, a willingness to learn, and a genuine commitment to quality in human services. I would also encourage them to really lean into the learning process because you will gain just as much as you give—new perspectives, professional insights, and lasting connections with passionate mission-driven peers.

Learn more about how to become a peer review volunteer and apply online.

The digital front door to human and social services organizations has long been the “Search Network.” For years, platforms like Google and Bing have supported individuals in their search for everything, from disaster relief programs to elder care and child welfare initiatives. However, a new normal is now evolving on the Search Network. With the integration of AI Overview, how users search for and find information is rapidly changing. This shift is prompting organizations to refine how they create website content and how their search advertising strategies are initially developed.

Here’s what you need to know about the AI Overview and how is it specifically impacting the Search Network. AI Overview is the comprehensive, AI-generated answer that appears prominently at the top of your search results, designed to directly address your query. For instance, if you search for “disaster relief organizations near me,” the AI Overview might provide a detailed response, as shown in the screenshot below, along with a recommendation for an organization you can explore further. While it includes some descriptive text and links to their website, its primary purpose is to deliver a quick, direct answer to the user.

As more users find their answers directly within AI Overview, the trend of visiting websites directly to locate information is naturally declining. This shift redefines the Search Network’s role as a user acquisition tool and reshapes how individuals will engage with websites for deeper insights in the future. With AI Overview now a prominent feature on Google and Bing, organizations should anticipate fewer direct clicks to their websites, potentially reduced impressions on both organic and paid search listings, and an amplified demand for high-quality, authoritative content. The urgency to establish content marketing within your organization is greater than ever, as AI Overview prioritizes content that precisely and clearly answers the questions your audience is asking via search.

While this new normal might seem to present some drawbacks, there are also distinct benefits for your website traffic. When a user consumes your AI Overview result (which may mention your organization) without actually clicking through to your website, this is often termed “Zero Click Marketing.” You are effectively marketing to your audience before they click, potentially putting more eyes on your content, provided it’s optimized for those search results. In addition, when a user does click through to your website, their intent is often much higher. This is likely because they didn’t find the complete answer they sought in the AI Overview, or they’re actively looking for more in-depth information. The result? Longer time on site, higher engagement rates, and ultimately, more conversions. This process effectively pre-qualifies a lead before they even reach your website, confirming they are more intentional and further along your conversion funnel than users you might have attracted previously.

Staying up-to-date with how AI Overview is transforming the Search Network offers a crucial advantage in maintaining a strong online presence for your website. The more users who see your content within AI Overviews and engage with your search listings, the more likely they are to become interested in your programs and ultimately support your organization. Therefore, optimizing your content for these overviews is essential.

Here are some key suggestions to improve your content for AI Overview:

Write content that answers questions directly and clearly. Your answers should appear as relevant results for a user, so avoid adding fluff and try including relevant keywords.

Keep your content fresh and relevant, ensuring it remains highly applicable to trending or frequently searched queries. This means your blogs from last year and previous years need to be updated—an easy way to get more content on your website while leveraging what you already know works.

Create more FAQs and utilize bullet points and lists to outline your thoughts and recommendations concisely yet valuably.

For Google Ads, take advantage of new features like AI Max campaigns that will allow you to run ads in AI Overview placements. Also, consider diversifying your search engine placements by running ads on YouTube Search and even Google Maps search via Performance Max campaigns.

Although the Search Network offers a strong digital acquisition path for human and social services organizations, it’s undeniable that people truly connect and engage because of the vital work these organizations perform. While the ongoing transition on the Search Network is indeed establishing a new normal, one certainty endures: Users will consistently seek the invaluable services your organizations offer, and the need for support will always remain relevant. Therefore, optimizing your content not only effectively connects those in need to your programs but also proactively future-proofs your website, positioning it for continued success as AI Overview further evolves.

Cause Inspired is a digital marketing agency that focuses on nonprofits. As the largest Google Ad Grant service provider, they help hundreds of organizations maximize Google’s $10,000 grant each month to achieve their digital and organizational goals. Learn more about Cause Inspired by visiting their blog and website.

Learn More about AI at SPARK 2025

At Social Current’s SPARK 2025 conference, Oct. 20-21 in Chicago, chief executives (CEOs and executive directors) will have a unique opportunity to deepen their understanding of how to lead through this change with the workshop, A1: AI Is Here—Now What? How CEOs Are Leading with Generative Intelligence. This session will feature candid insights from Brightpoint, a Social Current network organization, and Truth Collective, which has supported marketing and branding initiatives for Social Current and Brightpoint. Participants will explore applications and leadership-level implications for integrating AI into mission-driven work.

H.R. 1 is expected to have profound and lasting effects on the social service sector. Among the most consequential changes are deep funding cuts to Medicaid, along with new, burdensome requirements that make it more difficult for people to enroll, re-enroll, and maintain coverage. According to an analysis from the Congressional Budget Office, these changes are projected to result in the loss of Medicaid coverage for 16 million individuals by 2034.

The bill also imposes new eligibility requirements for the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) and ties state funding to administrative error rates, which is expected to further restrict access. Information from the Congressional Budget Office estimates 3 million individuals will lose access to SNAP as a result.

Medicaid and SNAP are foundational to our nation’s safety net, protecting the health and well-being of millions. Reduced funding and access will directly harm individuals and families, while placing an unsustainable burden on the social service organizations that support them.

For further information, Social Current has published a brief overview, highlighting the most impactful provisions of the bill; a detailed summary, which details expected impacts to the sector; and the recording of the July 10 webinar about the bill.

Loans Enrolled in the SAVE Plan Will Begin Accruing Interest Aug. 1

The U.S. Department of Education recently announced that interest accrual for borrowers with loans in the Saving on a Valuable Education (SAVE) Plan will restart August 1.

The Department announced that it will begin direct outreach July 10 to the nearly 7.7 million borrowers enrolled in the SAVE Plan, with instructions on how to move to a legal repayment plan and begin making qualifying payments.

The announcement arrives as student loan policies are expected to change rapidly due to H.R. 1, the federal budget bill. H.R. 1 phases out Pay as You Earn (PAYE), Saving on a Valuable Education (SAVE), and the Income-Contingent Repayment (ICR) Plan. Borrowers will need to choose either the Repayment Assistance Plan, a new income-based plan, or the amended Income-Based Repayment Plan between July 2026 and July 2028.

Social Current’s detailed summary of H.R. 1 offers key information regarding the Repayment Assistance Plan and the amended Income-Based Repayment Plan.

Expected Changes to Public Student Loan Forgiveness Eligibility

The U.S. Department of Education recently concluded its negotiated rulemaking session to ensure employers involved with the Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program are not engaging in activities with a substantial illegal purpose.

The Department made 15 substantive changes to the regulatory language according to feedback from the committee. Although the Department has not publicly released the changes, it will now draft a Notice of Proposed Rulemaking in the Federal Register for public comment, which is expected to be released before November 1.

HHS and the Department of Agriculture Amend Program Eligibility for Immigrants Lacking Permanent Legal Status

The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services rescinded a 1998 interpretation of the Personal Responsibility and Work Opportunity Reconciliation Act of 1996 (PRWORA).

The Department claimed the act improperly allowed immigrants lacking permanent legal status to access certain social service programs. HHS’ revised policy will take effect immediately upon publication in the Federal Register.

Key programs that will be formally classified as federal public benefits and have restricted eligibility include:

Certified Community Behavioral Health Clinics
Community Mental Health Services Block Grant
Community Services Block Grant
Head Start
Mental Health and Substance Use Disorder Treatment, Prevention, and Recovery Support Services Programs administered by the SAMHSA
Projects for Assistance in Transition from Homelessness Grant Program
Substance Use Prevention, Treatment, and Recovery Services Block Grant
Title IV-E Educational and Training Voucher Program
Title IV-E Kinship Guardianship Assistance Program
Title IV-E Prevention Services Program

The Department of Health and Human Services has published a complete list of programs.

The departments of Education and Labor have issued similar notices.

Similarly, the Department of Agriculture released the following programs to be formally classified as federal public benefits and restrict eligibility:

The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program
Food Distribution Program on Indian Reservations
The Emergency Food Assistance Program
Commodity Supplemental Food Program
Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children
WIC Farmers’ Market Nutrition Programs
Senior Farmers’ Market Nutrition Programs
National School Lunch Program
School Breakfast Program
Child and Adult Care Food Program
Fresh Fruit and Vegetable Program
Special Milk Program
Summer Food Service Program
Summer EBT
Disaster Assistance

ACF Opens State Applications for Redesigned Welfare Pilot Programs

The Administration for Children and Families released a request for applications for the Temporary Assistance for Needy Families pilot.

The pilot will choose up to five states to test innovative approaches aimed at promoting work and reducing government dependency. According to ACF, the redesigned pilot reflects the Trump Administration’s commitment to “reshaping welfare programs to encourage employment, personal responsibility, and strong families.”

The application will allow states to propose alternative performance measures that prioritize employment outcomes, earnings progression, and reduced reliance on Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF), Medicaid, and Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits — rather than the current work participation rates.

The pilot program will operate for six years, with the first year dedicated to establishing baseline data and negotiating performance targets. Applications are due August 15, 2025. The pilot program for the selected states will begin on October 1, 2025.

Children’s Bureau Issues Updated Guidance

The Children’s Bureau stressed the importance of complying with the executive order, Ending Illegal Discrimination and Restoring Merit-based Opportunity, through recently issued guidance. The Bureau strongly encouraged all recipients of entitlement or formula awards funded by titles IV-B or IV-E of the Social Security Act or the Child Abuse Prevention and Treatment Act to review all plans, services, strategies, and expenditures under these programs, including those made by subrecipients or contractors, to ensure that they do not support diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives or any other initiatives that discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, national origin, or another protected characteristic.

Senate Agriculture Committee Approves Appropriations Bill

On July 10, the Senate Agriculture Committee unanimously passed its agriculture appropriations bill, the Fiscal Year 2026 Agriculture, Rural Development, Food and Drug Administration (FDA), and Related Agencies Appropriations Act. The bill contains notable changes from the previously passed House version, increasing funding for the Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) Program by $603 million and the Commodity Supplemental Food Program (CSFP) by $36 million. It maintains the full Cash Value Benefit for fruits and vegetables. The bill also fully funds all mandatory nutrition programs for fiscal year 2026, including SNAP, School Lunch Program, School Breakfast Program, and Summer EBT.

The Senate Agriculture Committee also allocated $1.715 billion for rental assistance, an increase of $73 million over fiscal year 2025. It also continues rural housing preservation efforts, including the decoupling pilot program, multifamily housing technical assistance, and preservation financing.

For further information, Vice Chair Patty Murray (D-Wash.) issued a summary of key provisions within the bill.

Sector Updates from the Judiciary

Supreme Court Upholds Agency Workforce Reductions

The Supreme Court lifted a lower-court order that temporarily prevented the Trump Administration from laying off tens of thousands of federal workers.

The nation’s largest union of federal workers, the American Federation of Government Employees, filed the lawsuit alongside 11 nonprofit organizations and 6 local governments.

The plaintiffs alleged that in issuing the executive order, Implementing the President’s “Department of Government Efficiency” Workforce Optimization Initiative, the Trump administration circumvented congressional approval for its reorganization plans.

Solicitor General Sauer claimed that the president does not require special permission from Congress to exercise the essential presidential power of overseeing federal agencies. He additionally highlighted the directive to agencies to ensure that they do not eliminate any of the functions that statutes passed by Congress require.

In issuing their verdict, the justices determined that the administration is allowed to launch reorganizations as litigation continues. However, they maintained that the ruling does not speak to the legality of any agency plans for restructuring or shrinking the workforce.

Affected agencies include, but are not limited to, the Departments of Agriculture, Energy, Health and Human Services, and Veterans Affairs, as well as the IRS, Small Business Administration, and Environmental Protection Agency.

The district court will now determine the legality of the layoffs.

The decision follows the United States District Court of the Northern District of California’s verdict, temporarily preventing the reductions in force from occurring. US District Judge Illston maintained agencies would not be able to perform the tasks mandated by Congress if the reductions in force continued.

The decision also arrived shortly after a US District Court for the District of Rhode Island stopped mass firings and restructuring at the US Department of Health and Human Services from proceeding. Judge DuBose determined the proposed cuts violate the Administrative Procedure Act as they are arbitrary, capricious, and unsupported by the evidence. The court also upheld the irreparable harm the plaintiffs are expected to experience as they will not be able to continue offering federally funded health programs. The order paused 40 reduction in force actions underway at 17 agencies.

Federal Court Upholds Birthright Citizenship

The U.S. District Court for the District of New Hampshire blocked the enforcement of an executive order prohibiting birthright citizenship. Judge LaPlante issued a preliminary injunction nationwide and certified a class action lawsuit, including all children who will be affected.

The executive order limits birthright citizenship to individuals with at least one parent who is a U.S. citizen or permanent resident. The order also denies citizenship to children whose mothers are temporarily in the U.S., including those visiting under the Visa Waiver Program or as tourists. Students and individuals whose fathers are not citizens or lawful permanent residents would be excluded as well.

HHS Ordered to Restore Data Removed Due to “Gender Ideology” Executive Order

The U.S. District Court for the District of Columbia ordered the Department of Health and Human Services to restore webpages and datasets that were removed in response to the executive order, Defending Women from Gender Ideology Extremism and Restoring Biological Truth to the Federal Government.

Doctors for America filed the lawsuit, maintaining that providers relied on the data and websites to perform routine patient care tasks. They highlighted the expanse of data removed, including information about prescribing HIV medication and contraception and caring for patients with opioid dependency.

Doctors for America alleged that, in removing essential documents, the government had failed to provide adequate reason or notice. Judge Bates affirmed the decision to remove documents failed to consider the impact on physicians and neglected to follow the procedures that Congress has prescribed, ordering the data be restored.

Federal Court Upholds DOGE’s Access to Labor and Health and Human Services Data

The U.S. District Court for the District of Columbia permitted the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) to retain access to computer systems and data at the Labor and Health and Human Services Departments.

Unions and nonprofits previously issued a lawsuit due to DOGE’s lack of legal authority in accessing the data and their violation of the Administrative Procedure Act. However, Judge Bates determined that the plaintiffs failed to show the required harm for a preliminary injunction. The court cited a lack of evidence that personnel will imminently misuse or publicly disclose sensitive information.

Litigation on Our Radar

IRS Seeks Non-Enforcement of the Johnson Amendment

The IRS recently responded to a lawsuit filed by two Texas churches and an association of Christian broadcasters that sought a broad exemption to the Johnson Amendment. The plaintiffs requested that they would be able to endorse candidates to their members while maintaining their tax exempt status, maintaining that nonprofit nonpartisanship violates the First Amendment right to free speech.

If successful, the request would overrule a longstanding protection for nonprofits. The Johnson Amendment states that charitable nonprofits, foundations, and religious organizations that maintain a 501(c)(3) status may “not participate in, or intervene in (including the publishing or distributing of statements), any political campaign on behalf of (or in opposition to) any candidate for public office.”

In response to the lawsuit, the IRS wrote that if a house of worship endorsed a candidate to its congregants, the IRS would view that not as campaigning but as a private matter. The IRS and the plaintiffs asked the federal judge to stop the Johnson Amendment from being enforced against the parties filing the lawsuit.

The IRS’ statement signals a dangerous precedent. If the Johnson Amendment is not fully enforced, its legal and cultural authority could erode—along with the nonpartisan foundation of our sector. While the case centers on religious organizations, the implications may extend far beyond houses of worship. Weakening the Amendment could open the door to widespread politicization of nonprofit work.

Social Current remains resolute in advocating for the full enforcement of the Johnson Amendment. For further information, we have recently issued a statement, stressing the amendment’s importance for the nonprofit sector and warning of the harm a weakened version would have.

16 States File a Lawsuit to Restore Mental Health Grants

A coalition of 16 states filed a lawsuit against the Department of Education after approximately $1 billion in federal mental health funding was abruptly discontinued.

The withdrawal of funds is expected to cause the dismissal of school-based mental health employees, defund scholarships for college students preparing to serve as mental health professionals in K-12 schools, and eliminate critical mental health services offered by schools.

The state attorneys general argue that discontinuing the multi-year grants violates federal law and regulations. They are requesting that the funding be restored immediately.

Cities Challenge CMS Rule Expected to Significantly Reduce Coverage

The cities of Baltimore, Chicago and Columbus, Ohio, along with a coalition of health care professionals and small businesses, filed a lawsuit against the recently issued Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act; Marketplace Integrity and Affordability Final Rule.

The rule is intended to address waste, fraud, and abuse in the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act (ACA) eligibility and enrollment systems alongside rising “improper enrollment and health care costs,” according to CMS. HHS maintains the rule closes loopholes, strengthens oversight, and ensures taxpayer subsidies go to individuals who are truly eligible.

The lawsuit stresses the barriers the rule would create in accessing affordable insurance coverage, leading to an increased population of underinsured and uninsured Americans. The plaintiffs cite the harm expected to follow maximum annual cost-sharing limitations and stricter income-verification measures required by the rule. They also highlighted the hardships expected to follow the required premium increases for exchange plans, which would reach up to $714 per year for an average family, as well as the shortened enrollment period, which would be reduced by two weeks.

The plaintiffs warn that the rule will cause at least 1.8M Americans to lose ACA coverage and result in higher premiums and out-of-pocket costs.

The plaintiffs are requesting that the rule be blocked before it takes effect on August 25 due to its violation of the Administrative Procedure Act.

On Monday, July 7, the IRS responded to a lawsuit in which two Texas churches and an association of Christian broadcasters sued the IRS to create a broad exemption to the Johnson Amendment.

The request would overrule a longstanding protection for nonprofits that has remained the federal tax code since 1954. The Johnson Amendment details that charitable nonprofits, foundations, and religious organization that maintain a 501(c)(3) status may “not participate in, or intervene in (including the publishing or distributing of statements), any political campaign on behalf of (or in opposition to) any candidate for public office.”

The Johnson Amendment is a cornerstone of protection for our sector. It ensures that nonprofits remain focused on missions, not politics, and it preserves the public’s trust by preventing charitable organizations from becoming engaged in political campaigns. Any erosion of the amendment signals a potentially dangerous precedent that undermines the nonpartisan foundation of the sector. While this case centers on religious organizations, the implications may extend beyond houses of worship and could open the door to widespread politicization of nonprofit work.

Social Current opposes any attempt to repeal or weaken the Johnson Amendment. We affirm that the amendment offers essential protections to our sector by safeguarding our integrity and upholding public trust.

To stay informed about federal policy and advocacy opportunities through Social Current, join our grassroots advocacy network and subscribe to the Policy & Advocacy Radar newsletter.

August Recess, a monthlong period when Congress adjourns and members return to their home states, is an important opportunity for you to to meet and reconnect with your representatives, showcase your organization’s impact, and advocate for critical issues.
In-person meetings allow representatives to hear your story directly and to understand the challenges your organization is facing.

2025 Dates

House of Representatives: July 25-Sept. 1
Senate: Aug. 4-Sept. 1

Advantages of Scheduling During August Recess

Accessibility: Without Congressional hearings and competing responsibilities, representatives can focus their time within their district.
Influence: Meeting directly with representatives is a critical opportunity for representatives to hear your message firsthand. Your voice and passion are critical context for your community’s strengths and challenges, as well as the impact of your organization’s services.

Benefits of Site Visits

Site visits are one of the most impactful ways to engage representatives while they are to their home districts. Inviting your member of Congress to tour your organization allows them to directly witness the impact of your organization and learn from the individuals you serve.

By encouraging representatives to engage in your programs, as possible, they are able to witness how your services impact community members, which facilitates informed decision making. A strong understanding of lived experience is essential to developing responsive and effective policies that are grounded in a community’s unique needs.
In creating a forum for dialogue and questions, site visits can help you build solid foundations for lasting relationships, where your organization works alongside your elected officials to address the challenges experienced by your community.

Tips for Planning a Site Visit

Developing Your Ask

As you determine whether an invitation to a site visit, organizational event, or community roundtable would best suit your organization’s needs, consider what a successful meeting means for your organization. We recommend considering the following goals:
- A representative gaining an enhanced understanding of the populations you work with and the challenges they experience
- A representative introducing or co-sponsoring a bill
- A representative offering support for regulatory changes
Once you determine the hallmarks of a successful meeting, craft a direct ask, detailing specific opportunities for your representatives to engage and address the issue.

Preparing for Impactful Meetings

Tell your story and share your why:
- What brought you to this work with this organization?
- What are the stakes for your community?
- What would happen without your work?
Focus on the current impact of the issue and the cost of failing to act.
Center your organization’s impact.

After Your Meeting

Follow up within 24 hours. Send an email thanking the representative and their staff for their time. Consider including supplemental data and reference materials.
Begin to consider future opportunities for outreach and engagement. Consistent and regular communication facilitates strong relationships and partnerships in addressing the challenges faced by your community.

Considering Local Media Engagement

Increase Visibility: Local news remains a trusted source of information for communities. Publications offer an essential source of visibility for your organization’s efforts and the issues you work to address.
Take Back Your Narrative: By collaborating with reporters or publishing op-eds, local media affords critical opportunities for you to frame your narrative and define the issue in your terms.
Inspire Community Action: Stories may spark interest among community members to become involved in your organization’s advocacy, growing support, and capacity to address critical issues.

Download this article as a PDF tip sheet.

Additional Resources from Social Current

Download Social Current’s Policy, Advocacy, and Communications Toolkits for further information and guidance to support your advocacy.

Social Current offers customizable government affairs and advocacy consulting. We can collaborate with you to develop your advocacy strategy, train staff, mobilize your communities, and more.

To stay informed about federal policy and advocacy opportunities through Social Current, join our grassroots advocacy network and subscribe to the Policy & Advocacy Radar newsletter.

On July 4, President Trump signed into law H.R. 1, the federal budget bill.

This sweeping legislation includes provisions that will have profound and lasting effects on the social service sector. Among the most consequential changes are deep funding cuts to Medicaid, along with new, burdensome requirements that make it more difficult for individuals to enroll, re-enroll, and maintain coverage. According to an analysis from the Congressional Budget Office, these changes are projected to result in the loss of Medicaid coverage for 16 million individuals by 2034.

The bill also imposes eligibility requirements for the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) and ties state funding to administrative error rates, which is expected to further restrict access. Information from The Congressional Budget Office estimates 3 million individuals will lose access to SNAP as a result.

Resources from Social Current

Essentials of H.R. 1: This two-page overview highlights implications for the sector.
H.R. 1 Detailed Summary: This detailed summary delves into the bill’s provisions related to Medicaid, SNAP, student loans, immigration, nonprofit tax implications and tax credits.
Webinar Recording: This webinar, held July 10, reviewed the federal budget and its impact on the social sector, as well as outlined advocacy opportunities.

Social Current remains steadfast in partnering through the bill’s implementation to ensure the needs of our communities are represented. We will continue to work alongside our network to support bold, sustained advocacy, collectively leveraging our strength to safeguard a strong and resilient social sector.

To stay informed about federal policy and advocacy opportunities through Social Current, join our grassroots advocacy network and subscribe to the Policy & Advocacy Radar newsletter.

In a vote of 51-49, the Senate voted to proceed with a key procedural step to advance H.R.1, often referred to as the One Big Beautiful Bill Act. The bill contains critical provisions expected to significantly reduce access to Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), Medicare, and the Earned Income Tax Credit by decreasing funding and increasing eligibility verification requirements. To review the changes expected to significantly impact the social service sector, read Social Current’s issue summary.

Following extended debate during the weekend, the Senate began hosting a series of votes this morning, at 9 a.m. ET, through a process that allows an unlimited number of amendments to be brought to the floor. Senators plan to offer amendments that would impact a broad array of issues, including SNAP, Medicaid, and rural hospitals.

After voting on amendments, the Senate will vote on the final bill. If the bill passes, the Senate and House will then work collaboratively to unify their versions of the bill, ensuring a singular, identical bill is agreed upon by both chambers.

As the House and Senate deliberate, it is important to make your voice heard. Social Current has created a sample message to send to your representatives. Take action today!

Children’s Bureau Outlines Implementation of the Supporting America’s Children and Families Act

The Administration for Children and Families has released an information memorandum detailing implementation of the Supporting America’s Children and Families Act, signed into law Jan. 4, 2025. The legislation includes major updates relevant for the social service sector.

For the first time in over 15 years, the bill fully reauthorizes Title IV-B child welfare programs, providing resources to states, tribes, and territories for family preservation, child safety, and support for foster youth through fiscal year 2029. It also aims to address workforce challenges, prevent unnecessary separations, and expand funding and flexibility afforded to tribes.

View Social Current’s one-pager for a summary of the Supporting America’s Children and Families Act and its impact on the social sector.

Key provisions will take effect Oct. 1, 2025.

CMS Finalizes Rule Impacting ACA Enrollment and Eligibility

The Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) has finalized a rule that significantly alters eligibility and enrollment under the Affordable Care Act (ACA), with major implications for access and affordability.

Effective Aug. 25, 2025, the rule eliminates the monthly special enrollment period for individuals with projected household incomes at or below 150% of the federal poverty level. It also standardizes the Annual Open Enrollment Period starting with the 2027 plan year.

In addition, the rule excludes Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) recipients from eligibility and enrollment in ACA Exchange coverage and Basic Health Program (BHP) coverage in States that elect to operate a BHP.

CMS estimates that between 725,000 and 1.8 million people will lose coverage in 2026 as a result of the final rule.

For further information, CMS released a fact sheet outlining the finalized policies.

House Committee Reviews Policies and Priorities of the Department of Education

TThe House Committee on Education and Workforce held a hearing to examine the Department of Education’s current policies and future direction. Lawmakers affirmed their commitment to a thriving education system and a workforce prepared to succeed. They raised concerns about the student loans crisis and called for stronger federal protections for borrowers.

Education Secretary McMahon testified on the Department’s efforts to eliminate federal bureaucracy, reduce waste, and empower states, parents, and educators. She underscored the importance of accountability, safe learning environments, and effective higher education. Key priorities included addressing the student loan debt crisis, simplifying repayment programs, and expanding access to workforce PELL grants.

Committee members expressed concern for the Department’s oversight of federal grants, training, legal compliance, funding for magnet schools and special education, and future support for programs such as the Perkins Grant Program.

House Committee Weighs Solutions to Child Care Accessibility Crisis

The House Subcommittee on Early Childhood, Elementary, and Secondary Education held a hearing to address the rising cost of child care, which has become unaffordable for countless families amid increasing living expenses. Ranking Member Suzanne Bonamici (D-Ore.) cited an estimated $122 billion in annual lost earnings and productivity that child care challenges for parents and caregivers in the workforce cost the economy.

Lawmakers emphasized the need for innovative, sustainable approaches to strengthen the child care sector. Chairman Kevin Kiley (R-Ca) encouraged public private partnerships while Bonamici raised concerns about communities lacking access to resources needed to implement such solutions equitably.

Witnesses underscored the essential role of accessible child care for families, similarly boosting workforce participation, business productivity, and promoting long-term economic mobility. They also emphasized the need for flexibility and choice to reflect the diverse needs of communities and working parents.

House Subcommittee Discusses Services Available to Youth Exiting Foster Care

The House Ways and Means Committee’s Work and Welfare Subcommittee, recently held the hearing, “Aging Out is Not a Plan: Reimagining Futures for Foster Youth.” Chairman Darin LaHood (R-Ill.) and Ranking Member Danny Davis (D-Ill.) affirmed the committee’s bipartisan commitment to supporting children and improving outcomes for families. They discussed the Foster Care Independence Act of 1999 and services offered by the John H. Chafee Foster Care Independence Program, including independent living services and Education and Training Vouchers.

Committee members and witnesses stressed the challenges youth face after exiting the foster care system, highlighting challenges accessing mental health care, housing, and higher education. They referred to a recent report from the Government Accountability Office, which details states’ underutilization of Chafee funds, likely due to administrative barriers and red tape that complicate states’ ability to draw down funds. The challenges are compounded by the fragmented and disconnected nature of services, leaving youth to navigate a complex web of services.

In sharing their experiences, witnesses detailed similar barriers to accessing needed services. They also stressed the transformative power of family, peer connections, and community to support youth in achieving their dreams and goals, while maintaining their health and well-being. Additional recommendations included increasing funding limits for allowed yearly education costs alongside rising costs of attendance. Additionally, witnesses recommended expanding the definition of qualified education and training programs for Education and Training Voucher (ETV) funds to include programs in the trade and technical career pathways.

Committee members stressed their commitment to working collaboratively to improve Chafee to provide better support and help youth achieve their full potential, and they thanked individuals who have received foster care services for sharing their experiences, wisdom, and expertise.

Sector Updates from the Judiciary

Supreme Court Upholds U.S. Preventive Services Task Force

The Supreme Court upheld the structure of the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force, a section of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, which sets no-cost coverage for preventive services. Following the Affordable Care Act, health insurers and group health plans are required to provide the recommended preventive services without copayments, deductibles, or additional cost-sharing charges for patients.

A lawsuit was filed alleging the task force members were unconstitutionally appointed; however, a 6-3 majority affirmed the appointments were consistent with the Constitution’s Appointments Clause.

The ruling safeguards access to preventive care for an estimated 40 million individuals, according to a study conducted by Stanford University’s Stanford Prevention Policy Modeling Lab.

Supreme Court Restricts Federal Judges’ Authority to Grant Nationwide Injunctions

In a lawsuit regarding the legality of President Trump’s executive order prohibiting birthright citizenship, the Supreme Court answered an essential larger question of the legality of issuing nationwide injunctions.

The conservative majority determined that the ability to grant federal injunctions lies beyond the authority of lower courts. Writing for the majority, Justice Barrett asserted the role of federal courts is not to “exercise general oversight of the Executive Branch; they resolve cases and controversies consistent with the authority Congress has given them.”

Litigation determining the legality of birthright citizenship will continue as the Supreme Court remained silent on its constitutionality. In the interim, the decision’s impact extends to more than 40 nationwide injunctions affecting key issues, including federal funding freezes. However, it remains silent on an additional pathway for individuals and organizations to seek relief against harmful federal orders: class action lawsuits.

Supreme Court Upholds Tennessee Ban on Gender-Affirming Care for Youth

The U.S. Supreme Court has upheld a Tennessee law banning the use of puberty blockers and hormone therapy for transgender minors, ruling that it does not violate the Constitution’s equal protection clause. The decision, split along ideological lines, allows the law to remain in effect.

In the majority opinion, the justices stated that because the law does not breach constitutional protections, policy decisions on the matter should be left to “the people, their elected representatives, and the democratic process.” They also noted that the law does not make distinctions based on sex, but instead prohibits providers from administering certain treatments to minors regardless of gender.

Tennessee is one of 27 states that have enacted laws restricting or banning gender-affirming care for youth. Many of these laws face ongoing legal challenges, including in Arkansas and Montana, where courts have struck down similar measures.

The decision also follows a recent Supreme Court ruling that requires schools to offer children and parents the opportunity to opt out from public school lessons utilizing LGBTQ-themed storybooks.

Supreme Court Sends New York Abortion Coverage Mandate Back for Review

The U.S. Supreme Court has ordered the New York Court of Appeals to reconsider a ruling that requires employer health insurance plans to cover medically necessary abortion services. The mandate was codified into state law in 2022.

The decision to remand the case follows a recent Supreme Court ruling that Wisconsin violated the rights of Catholic-affiliated charitable organizations by denying them a state unemployment tax exemption—an outcome that may influence how religious exemptions are considered in similar cases.

Supreme Court Limits Medicaid Beneficiaries’ Right to Sue Over Provider Choice

In a decision split along ideological lines, the U.S. Supreme Court ruled that Medicaid beneficiaries cannot sue to challenge a state’s decision to exclude a health care provider from the program. The case centered on South Carolina’s move to bar Planned Parenthood from its Medicaid program due to the organization’s provision of abortion services.

The lawsuit was brought by Julie Edwards, a patient who had received care from Planned Parenthood and sought to continue receiving all reproductive and gynecological services there.

Writing for the majority, Justice Neil Gorsuch stated that the Medicaid Act does not clearly establish a private right of action allowing individuals to sue states for access to “any qualified provider.”

The ruling overturns a lower court decision from the 4th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals, which had found that the Medicaid Act created enforceable rights under federal civil rights law and had previously blocked South Carolina from excluding Planned Parenthood.

The decision is expected to have significant implications for health care access. By limiting the ability of Medicaid recipients to challenge provider exclusions, it narrows recourse when states cut off funding for organizations like Planned Parenthood—even for services unrelated to abortion.

Federal Court Strikes Down Reproductive Health Care Privacy Rule

A federal judge in the Northern District of Texas has invalidated a U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) rule aimed at strengthening privacy protections for reproductive health care. The court ruled that HHS exceeded its legal authority in issuing the 2024 HIPAA Rule to Support Reproductive Health Care Privacy. The rule prohibited HIPAA-covered entities from using or disclosing protected health information for purposes such as criminal investigations related to the lawful provision or receipt of reproductive health care.

Key provisions of the rule included:

Broadly defining “reproductive health care” to include services such as abortion, gender-affirming care, IVF, STD screenings, maternity care, contraception, vasectomies, and mammograms.
Barring the use or disclosure of protected health information if it would support prohibited activities like investigations into lawful care.
Establishing safeguards to prevent misuse of requested reproductive health information.

The court found the rule unlawfully restricted state public health laws and improperly redefined terms such as “person” and “public health.” While most of the rule has been blocked nationwide, limited protections for substance use disorder treatment records remain intact.

Supreme Court Blocks Rule Requiring Advance Notice for Deportations

The U.S. Supreme Court has upheld a Trump-era policy allowing the federal government to deport individuals to third countries, even if those are not their countries of origin. The decision overturns a lower court ruling that had required the government to give individuals at risk of deportation 10 days’ notice and the opportunity to argue that they could face persecution or torture.

The Court found that the lower court’s mandate overstepped judicial authority and interfered with presidential discretion and foreign diplomacy.

Federal Court Orders Reinstatement of Education Department Civil Rights Staff

A federal judge has ordered the reinstatement of employees fired from the U.S. Department of Education’s Office for Civil Rights (OCR), issuing a preliminary injunction effective June 19. The ruling halts a March directive from the Trump administration that closed seven of OCR’s 12 regional offices and cut half of its 550-person staff.

The lawsuit was filed by the Massachusetts-based Victims Rights Law Center on behalf of two students, arguing that the reduction in staff created a severe resource gap that harmed students facing sexual, racial, and disability discrimination.

U.S. District Judge Myong J. Joun found that the plaintiffs experienced harm due to delayed investigations, which directly affected their ability to access education.

Federal Judge Blocks AmeriCorps from Revoking Previously Awarded EDI Funds

A federal judge in the Northern District of California has ruled that AmeriCorps cannot rescind or suspend grant funding based on compliance with executive orders tied to equity, diversity, inclusion (EDI); gender, or climate policy. The decision prevents the agency from enforcing a Feb. 13 directive requiring all grant activities to align with executive orders from the Trump administration as a condition of funding.

The ruling came after AmeriCorps attempted to revoke $650,000 in previously awarded funding from the San Francisco Unified School District, targeting programs that incorporate EDI practices. U.S. District Judge Edward M. Chen found the district faced irreparable harm if the funding were withdrawn.

The decision replaces an earlier temporary restraining order issued in March and affirms prior rulings that determined conditions tied to anti-EDI and related executive orders are likely too vague to be legally enforceable.

While litigation continues, AmeriCorps is barred from freezing, terminating, or altering any existing grant funds awarded to the district for EDI-related programs.

New York Court of Appeals Affirms Resentencing Rights for Domestic Violence Survivors

The New York Court of Appeals has upheld the authority of appellate courts to resentence incarcerated individuals under the Domestic Violence Survivors Justice Act (DVSJA), a state law allowing courts to consider the impact of domestic abuse when determining criminal sentences.

In a split decision, the court ruled that the Albany-based Third Appellate Department acted within its authority when it reduced the sentence of a domestic violence survivor. The appellate court’s decision overruled a trial court judge who had previously denied the resentencing request under the DVSJA.

The ruling reinforces the role of higher courts in ensuring that survivors of domestic violence receive fair consideration during sentencing.