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.

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.

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.
Upcoming Webinar July 10 from 1-2 p.m. ET: This webinar will review the federal budget and impact on the social sector, as well as cover advocacy opportunities. Register now to save your spot.

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.

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.

While the social sector was initially slower to adopt artificial intelligence (AI) than the private sector, they are quickly catching up. Now, 58% of nonprofit organizations say they are testing use cases for AI. Facing budget constraints and staffing shortages, many organizations can leverage AI tools to effectively bridge these gaps. AI can be useful across many organizational functions, including human resources, data and quality improvement, IT, and marketing, but some employees may feel hesitant to use it.

Understandably, there is a clear tension between the anxiety around AI and the promise that it can automate processes and improve efficiency.

Opportunities

Below are four key considerations as organizations develop a human-centric approach to AI implementation, allay workplace anxiety, and empower employees to take ownership of new tools:

Build Trust through Transparency and Communication: Organizations that are open and transparent about their AI adoption plans, including how AI will impact roles and what training opportunities will be provided, can significantly reduce employee anxiety. Involving employees in the AI adoption process can also build trust and a sense of ownership. Consider creating a cross-functional AI-readiness team involving employees from all levels in the organization.
Use AI As an Assistant, not a Replacement: When framing AI initiatives, focus on the tasks they can support and emphasize that they are not supplanting any one job or position. Repetitive, data-intensive, and predictable tasks are prime candidates for AI. When AI takes over these monotonous aspects of a job, it can free employees to focus on more creative, strategic, and human-centric work. This can boost job satisfaction and reduce burnout.
Don’t Underestimate the Importance of Upskilling and Training: This step is crucial for mitigating job anxiety. Organizations implementing AI-driven initiatives have a responsibility to invest in training programs that equip employees with the skills needed to work alongside AI, manage AI systems, or transition into new AI-augmented roles. This includes both technical skills related to AI literacy and human skills like creativity and emotional intelligence.
Implement AI Ethically and Create Contingency Plans: Concerns about bias, privacy, and the dehumanization of work are valid. Implementing AI ethically, with robust governance frameworks and human oversight, is essential to build trust and ensure AI serves humanity, not the other way around.

Risks

For all the benefits of AI, there are many risks as well. AI can magnify human biases, open the door to data breaches, put client privacy at risk, and just be completely inaccurate. According to the recent State of the Nonprofit Sector Report, 42% of organizations are concerned about these dangers. Another finding related to workplace morale is that employees who used generative AI frequently lost intrinsic motivation and experienced more disengagement at work than those with little-to-moderate use.

Nonprofits need to carefully consider the risks accompanying AI and document them as part of their risk-management strategy. Mitigation plans should include rapid responses to cybersecurity threats and data breaches; strategies for protecting client data and privacy; and comprehensive AI training for all employee, including how it works, how to check for inaccuracies and plagiarism, and appropriate use cases.

Despite the risks, less than 25% of social sector organizations have a clear strategy or policy for AI use. AI integration will continue to grow and now is the time to draft your organizational approach. Ask your teams to share their hopes, fears, and questions about AI. Draft processes and boundaries that keep personally identifiable information secure and out of generative AI systems. Upskill your team with AI courses, research, and workshops to better understand algorithmic bias and how to identify and mitigate bias risks.

Some sample templates for drafting your own AI use policies include:

AI Policy Template: Acceptable Use of Generative AI Tools (2023) Thrive
AI Policy Template: Build Your Organizational AI Policy (2024) Responsible AI Institute

Also explore these guiding frameworks for ethical and impactful AI adoption:

Artificial Intelligence Risk Management Framework from NIST, U.S. Dept of Commerce
Responsible AI Adoption in Philanthropy: An Initial Framework for Grantmakers from Project Evident

Conclusion

As artificial intelligence continues its rapid integration into all sectors, nonprofits stand at a crucial juncture. The opportunities for enhanced efficiency, expanded reach, and improved service delivery are immense. However, these advancements are not without complexities, and AI must be implemented thoughtfully with employees at the center. By fostering open dialogue, prioritizing staff empowerment, and investing in comprehensive AI literacy, nonprofits can ensure AI serves as a powerful force for good within their organizations and beyond.

Sources & Further Reading

Articles

Does AI Take the Human Touch Out of Human Services? (2024) Social Current
Real Talk on Artificial Intelligence: To Unlock the Potential of AI, Nonprofits Must First Know the Risk (2024) BusinessWest
Gen AI Makes People More Productive – and Less Motivated (2025) Harvard Business Review
Mapping the Landscape of AI Powered Nonprofits (2024) Stanford Social Innovation Review
For AI Adoption Success, Focus on These Five Critical Value Drivers (2024) Forbes
What Nonprofits Can Learn from the AI Hype Cycle (2025) Talking AI Substack
Social Work Research in the Age of Artificial Intelligence (2023) Families in Society the Journal of Contemporary Social Services, 104 (Issue 4), 407-409

Reports

2025 State of the Nonprofit Sector (2025) Forvis Mazars
The State of AI in Nonprofits Benchmark Report (2025) Tech Soup
The AI Equity Project (2024) Sponsored by Giving Compass
Grassroots and Nonprofit Perspectives on Generative AI (2024) JRF

Knowledge and Insights Center Resources

Social Current’s Knowledge and Insights Center (KIC) offers leaders expertly curated resources to stay ahead of sector trends, implement innovative strategies, and develop your skills to ensure you’re on the cutting edge of best (and next) practices.

Learning Community

Enhance your leadership skills through a range of professional development and learning opportunities. The KIC offers live webinars, self-paced courses, trainings, and learning cohorts.

Center for Creative Leadership Series: Lead the future of your organization and unlock your full potential with on-demand courses from the Center for Creative Leadership.

Next Big Idea Book Club (Impact Partner Exclusive): This book club features nonfiction titles curated by bestselling authors Malcolm Gladwell, Adam Grant, Susan Cain, and Daniel Pink. Through each concise, high-impact course, participants can gain a deep understanding of key concepts and practices in less than 45 minutes.

Business, Media, & Research Databases

From thousands of premium journals to the latest social sector news and media, Social Current Impact Partners and KIC subscribers have access to a wealth of evidence-based resources to support them in addressing any leadership challenge.
Business Books Summaries. Want to learn from bestselling business authors, but don’t have time to read everything on your list? Business Book Summaries provides concise overviews of thousands of key business books to help stay current and develop new skills.

Top Business Book Summaries on AI Technology:

Generative AI: Navigating the Course to the Artificial General Intelligence Future (2025) Martin Musiol
The CEO’s Digital Survival Guide (2025) Nathan Wittacre
AI-Driven Project Management (2025) Kristian Bainey
Generative AI: Insights You Need from Harvard Business Review (2024) Harvard Business Review
AI-Savvy Leader (2024) David De Cremer

The Tech-Informed Leader’s Recommended Reading List:

Welcome to AI: A Human Guide to Artificial Intelligence (2025) David L. Shier
Unmasking AI: My Mission to Protect What Is Human in a World of Machines (2024) Joy Buolamwini
You Look Like a Thing and I Love You: How Artificial Intelligence Works and Why Its Making the World a Weirder Place (2019) Janelle Shane
Co-Intelligence: Living and Working with AI (2024) Ethan Mollick
Human + Machine: Reimagining Work in the Age of AI (2024) Paul R. Daugherty & James Wilson

Social Current Resources and Opportunities

Customizable Consulting: As artificial intelligence reshapes the social sector, leaders have a critical role to play in guiding their organizations through this technological transformation with vision, transparency, and humanity. Social Current has deep expertise in leadership and organizational development in the social sector. We can partner with you to assess and enhance your leadership strategies and provide training for teams.

SPARK 2025: At SPARK 2025, 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.

Download this spotlight on AI as a PDF.

The Senate Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions Committee released draft legislative text to amend the appropriations bill. If passed, the provisions would significantly impact student loan borrowers.

The Senate’s proposal includes:

Revoking federal financial aid from college programs that can’t prove their graduates are earning more income than they would have without a degree
Ending the ability to defer debt payments when borrowers experience economic hardship and unemployment
Eliminating the Saving on a Valuable Education, or SAVE, program and the Grad PLUS loan program

U.S. Senate Committee on Agriculture, Nutrition, and Forestry additionally proposed changes that are expected to significantly limit access to nutrition programs.

Removing a provision that would have exempted veterans, individuals experiencing homelessness, and those under the age of 24 who aged out of foster care at age 18 from work requirements to receive SNAP benefits
Reducing matching funds offered to state agencies according to SNAP Quality Control Payment Error Rates
Eliminating the National Education and Obesity Prevention Grant Program once FY25 funding is fulfilled

As the Senate deliberates, it is important to make your voice heard. Social Current has created an issue summary and a sample message to send to your senators. Take action today!

U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Reconstitutes the Advisory Committee for Immunization Practices

On June 9, the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services announced the removal of all 17 sitting members of the Advisory Committee for Immunization Practices (ACIP). ACIP makes recommendations on the safety, efficacy, and clinical need of vaccines to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

The members will be replaced with individuals currently under the Department’s consideration. The Secretary affirmed the importance of ensuring that government scientific activities are informed by the most credible, reliable, and impartial scientific evidence available.

Congressional Advisers Release Recommendations to Improve Access to Care for Children and Adults with Special Health Care Needs

The Medicaid and CHIP Payment and Access Commission issued their June 2025 report, outlining the following recommendations,

Require states to identify ways to transition minors with special health care needs to adult care to prevent the loss of Medicaid benefits when they age out of CHIP
Require state Medicaid and Title V agencies to mutually define the roles and responsibilities of the agencies in supporting the transitions from pediatric to adult care
Ensure children maintain appropriate access to residential behavioral health treatment services

The Commission also highlighted barriers to accessing appropriate residential treatment, including limited availability of information, a lack of uniformity in assessing children’s need for residential behavioral health care, and workforce shortages. They further emphasized the harm caused by social stigma, limited provider availability, and prior authorization hurdles.

House Committee on Homeland Security Investigates NGOs Offering Migrant Assistance

The House Committee on Homeland Security Chairman Mark Green (R-Tenn.) and Subcommittee on Oversight, Investigations, and Accountability Chairman Josh Brecheen (R-Okla.) launched an investigation of more than 200 non-governmental organizations that provided services or support to migrants during the Biden-Harris Administration.

The investigation was created to examine whether NGOs used federal funds to facilitate illegal immigration. The named organizations have been asked to complete a survey regarding the government grants, contracts, and disbursements they received. They’ve been asked to detail what material assistance they’ve offered, including through transportation, housing, and shelter services. They must also answer whether the organizations have sued the federal government or filed supporting documents against the U.S. government.

House Committee on Oversight Hosts Hearing Regarding NGOs

On June 4, the Delivering on Government Efficiency Subcommittee of the House Committee on Oversight and Government Reform held a hearing titled, “Public Funds, Private Agendas: NGOs Gone Wild.”

Subcommittee Chair Marjorie Taylor Greene (R-Ga.) opened the hearing by maintaining that Democratic elected officials and appointees work closely with non-governmental organizations to advance a political agenda outside the will of Americans. Republican congressmembers and majority witnesses affirmed allegations of fraud and abuse of federal funds.

Ranking Member Melanie Stansbury (D-Minn.) raised concerns for nonprofits, especially due to ongoing funding freezes, and the resulting challenges communities are facing. Democratic representatives shared similar concerns and, alongside the minority witness, Diane Yentel, the president and CEO of the National Council of Nonprofits, detailed the role of nonprofits and essential benefits they offer to their communities and the country as a whole.

Sector Updates from the Judiciary

U.S. Supreme Court Upholds Religious Tax Exemption

The U.S. Supreme Court unanimously ruled that, according to the First Amendment, it is unconstitutional to impose a denominational preference by differentiating between religions because of theological differences.

The verdict follows a ruling from the Wisconsin Supreme Court that upheld Catholic Charities’ denial of an exemption from the state’s unemployment tax program. The Wisconsin Supreme Court determined that because the organization is not operated primarily for religious purposes within the state’s legal definition because it does not proselytize or limit their services to Catholics. The U.S. Supreme Court determined Catholic-affiliated charities were wrongly denied a religious exemption from having to pay into the state’s unemployment tax program.

U.S. Supreme Court Unifies Standard for Students with Disabilities to Prove Discrimination

The U.S. Supreme Court unanimously rejected requiring a higher burden of proof to demonstrate that students with disabilities have experienced discrimination. Previously, lawsuits required families to prove that the school system acted in bad faith or with gross misjudgment. The ruling is expected to facilitate children and their families’ ability to seek relief.

Federal Court Denies Request to Halt Further Actions to Close the Institute of Museum and Library Services

The U.S. District Court for the District of Columbia responded to a lawsuit brought by the American Library Association and the American Federation of State, County and Municipal Employees to stop the closure of the Institute of Museum and Library Services. U.S. District Judge Leon denied the Association’s request to halt further actions from the Trump Administration to close IMLS, maintaining the case should be heard in a separate court specifically for contractual claims.

However, a separate order, following a lawsuit brought by several states, that prohibits the government from closing the Museum and Library Services Institute remains in place.

Pride Month is time designated each year to champion equality, call attention to injustice, and celebrate the LGBTQ+ community. This resource from Social Current’s Knowledge and Insights Center (KIC) is designed to help your organization develop impactful Pride Month initiatives that extend beyond June and foster a more inclusive future. Learn how to effectively support your team, create positive change in your community, and stand firmly for LGBTQ+ rights all year round.

History of Pride Month

Pride Month, celebrated each June, traces back to theStonewall Uprisingin June 1969 in New York City. In response to a police raid at the Stonewall Inn, members of the LGBTQ+ community, notably Black transgender women, organized a series of spontaneous protests. This uprising is widely considered a turning point and one of the most important events leading to the gay liberation movement and the modern fight for LGBTQ+ rights in the U.S.

One year later, the first Pride marches were held in New York, Los Angeles, and Chicago to commemorate the Stonewall Uprising. These marches were both a commemoration of the resistance at Stonewall and a public demonstration for equal rights. The core message was a demand for visibility and an end to discrimination. The term “pride” was used as a direct counter-message to societal stigma.

Pride Month remains a powerful symbol of resistance, a celebration of identity, and a call to action. While significant progress has been made in many parts of the world, LGBTQ+ individuals still face discrimination, violence, and legal challenges. Pride Month serves as an important reminder of the work that still needs to be done to achieve full equality and acceptance for all. It encourages dialogue, promotes understanding, and inspires action to advocate against attacks on LGBTQ+ rights.

Further Reading on Pride History

The History of Pride | Meg Metcalf, Library of Congress
Pride Month: A History of Resistance | National LGBTQ Task Force
Stonewall: The Definitive Story of the LGBTQ Rights Uprising the Changed America | Martin Duberman, Penguin Random House
The Gay Revolution: The Story of the Struggle | Lillian Faderman, Simon & Schuster

Celebrating Pride at Your Workplace

As we think about the actions human services professionals can take in our spheres of influence to celebrate and promote equity for the LGBTQ+ community this month, consider some of these simple initiatives you could take to create a more inclusive, safe workplace. This is a good time for leadership teams to affirm their commitment to equity and model inclusive behavior by championing a workplace Pride Month initiative.

Host a book club featuring a book on LGBTQ+ history or themes
Facilitate a virtual lunch and learn with LGBTQ+ advocates and/or community leaders
Highlight LGBTQ+ stories and experiences by sharing a daily video or podcast

Whatever format you choose, make sure to establish ground rules that emphasize respect, active listening, and confidentiality. Using tools that allow participants to contribute anonymously is also helpful for encouraging candid, open discussion.

Take it into the Community

Your organization can also show its support to the wider community. Some activities to consider include:

Organize a donation drive or fundraiser for a community-based organization focused on LGBTQ+ awareness and equity
Create a space (physical or virtual) for employees to post how they support LGBTQ+ causes in their community all year long
Coordinate educational toolkits, webinars, or events for the community focused on LGBTQ+ topics

Keep the Momentum

While Pride Month serves as a vital and visible celebration and a call to action, the fight for equity, acceptance, and safety for LGBTQ+ individuals is a daily reality, not a seasonal event. Being an ally year-round means consistently educating oneself, challenging discrimination whenever it arises, using inclusive language, uplifting LGBTQ+ voices, and advocating for systemic change. Consistent, active support helps create inclusive environments where LGBTQ+ people feel safe, respected, and empowered to be their authentic selves every day.

Knowledge and Insights Center Resources

Social Current’s Knowledge and Insights Center (KIC) offers leaders expertly curated resources to stay ahead of sector trends, implement best practices, and develop your leadership skills.

Learning Community

Enhance your leadership skills through a range of professional development and learning opportunities. The KIC offers live webinars, self-paced courses, trainings, and learning cohorts.

This month, celebrate Pride and discover how to keep your momentum year-round with:

Business, Media, & Research Databases

Business Books Summaries. Want to learn from bestselling business authors, but don’t have time to read everything on your list? Business Book Summaries provides concise overviews of thousands of key business books to help stay current and develop new skills.

Top Business Book Summaries on inclusive workplace strategies:

All Pride, No Ego by Jim Fielding
I Don’t Understand: Navigating Unconscious Bias in the Workplace by Buki Mosaku
Daily Practices of Inclusive Leaders by Eddie Pate & Johnathan Stutz
The Inclusive Organization by Netta Jenkins

The Inclusive Leader’s recommended reading list:

Lead Like an Ally by Julie Kratz
The Inclusive Language Handbook by Jackie Ferguson and Roxanne Bellamy
Just Work: How to Root Out Bias, Prejudice, and Bullying to Build a Kick-Ass Culture of Inclusivity by Kim Scott
Better Allies: Everyday Actions to Create Inclusive, Engaging Workplaces by Karen Catlin
The Diversity Gap by Bethany B. Wilkinson
Allies at Work: Creating a Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, and Transgender Inclusive Work Environment by David M. Hall

Gain access to the Knowledge and Insights Center by becoming a Social Current Impact Partner or purchasing access.

On Thursday, May 22, the U.S. House of Representatives passed a sweeping budget bill, H.R.1, with 215 Representatives voting in favor and 214 against. The bill will significantly impact core health, nutrition, and anti-poverty programs and strain the nonprofit sector’s ability to respond.

What’s At Risk

Medicaid and Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP): The bill imposes frequent eligibility checks, tedious documentation, and work requirements that could cause many eligible individuals to lose coverage.
Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP): Added work requirements and reduced state flexibility could strip food assistance from millions, including older adults and veterans.
Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC): New verification hurdles impose burdensome documentation requirements that may prevent low-income working families from accessing the tax credit.
Student Loans: The bill imposes unnecessary barriers to entering higher education by adding caps total loan amounts, eliminating key deferments, and limiting forbearance eligibility.

Contact your Senators to oppose these harmful provisions.

CMS Issues a Dear Colleague Letter Informing States of Increased Federal Oversight of Medicaid Expenditures

To comply with the executive order, “Ending Taxpayer Subsidization of Open Borders,” the U.S. Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services announced increased financial oversight of Medicaid funding. States found to be improperly allocating funds to noncitizens will be subject to recoupment of the federal share.

CMS included focused reviews of Medicaid expenditures reported by states on the quarterly CMS-64 and in-depth financial management reviews as potential oversight initiatives. The agency encouraged states to review their policies, internal controls, public assistance cost allocation plans, and IT systems to ensure that they are claiming medical assistance and administrative expenditures in accordance with federal law.

The Department of Education Announces Additional Funding for the Charter Schools Program

The Department of Education announced an increase in the Charter Schools Program (CSP) funding by $60 million for FY 2025, raising the program’s total budget to $500 million. Secretary McMahon additionally announced a new grant opportunity through CSP, the Model Development and Dissemination Grant Program. This program aims to showcase and share strategies that are helping charter schools across the country innovate and succeed.

The Department has also released Notices Inviting Applications for five additional 2025 competitions under the CSP, including the State Entities, State Facilities Incentive Grants, Credit Enhancement, Charter Management Organizations, and Charter School Developers programs.

U.S. Senate Committee on Health, Labor, and Pensions Holds a Hearing on the State of Higher Education

Senators stressed the importance of higher education and the need for a highly educated workforce to respond to rapidly evolving technology and a competitive global economy. Witnesses and senators highlighted critical barriers, including growing unaffordability, and resulting challenges, including rising shortages of critical health professionals. Alongside members, the Executive Director of the Student Borrower Protection Center warned of the imminent financial crisis student loan borrowers are expected to experience through administrative policies, including forced collections against borrowers in default.

Witnesses and senators affirmed the need for comprehensive reform and innovation. They highlighted declining trust in institutions of higher education and discussed the unique role that faith-based institutions, historically-Black colleges and universities, and community colleges hold. They encouraged increasing access, affordability, and accountability, including by expanding PELL grants and safeguarding student loan borrowing protections.

Updates from the Judiciary

Federal Judge Blocks Executive Order to Dismantle the Department of Education

The United States District Court for the District of Massachusetts issued a preliminary injunction to stop an executive order that directed the Department of Education to facilitate the Department’s closure. U.S. District Judge Myong Joun additionally ordered the Department of Education to reinstate employees terminated as part of the March 11 layoff announcement.

Several advocacy groups and the Somerville and Easthampton school districts filed the lawsuit, maintaining the layoffs amounted to an illegal shutdown of the Education Department. The plaintiffs claimed the Department would not be able to fulfil the responsibilities required by Congress, including their duties to support special education, distribute financial aid, and enforce civil rights laws.

Judge Joun affirmed the layoffs would cause irreparable harm as schools would face financial uncertainty and delay, impeded access to vital knowledge on which students and educators rely, and loss of essential services for the most vulnerable student populations.

Supreme Court Holds Oral Arguments to Determine the Constitutionality of Ending Birthright Citizenship

On May 15, the Supreme Court held oral arguments to determine the constitutionality of President Trump’s executive order ending birthright citizenship.

While three U.S. District Courts blocked the injunction nationwide, the former Acting Solicitor General Sarah Harris requested that the Supreme Court Justices limit the scope of district court rulings to the individuals who brought the lawsuits forward.

The Trump Administration, alongside several members of Congress, argue that the Constitution does not grant lower-level federal courts the power to issue universal injunctions to stop an executive order from being implemented nationwide. Rather, district court judges can only issue a judgement regarding the rights of the specific individuals who filed the lawsuit. The Supreme Court’s ruling holds the potential to significantly impact judges’ response to executive orders.
The Supreme Court is expected to issue its verdict by the end of June.

On May 22, the House narrowly passed H.R. 1, a massive reconciliation bill that would reshape federal investments in health, nutrition, and anti-poverty programs—undermining access to basic supports and placing significant new burdens on the nonprofit sector.

While advocacy helped remove some of the most extreme threats—like language targeting 501(c)(3) status—serious risks remain, and the bill now moves to the Senate for consideration.

We need your voice in this next phase. Contact your senators today and urge them to:

Protect streamlined Medicaid and CHIP access
Preserve state flexibility in SNAP
Reject barriers to EITC access and student loan repayment
Safeguard nonprofit capacity to meet growing need

These changes aren’t just technical. They would destabilize the safety net and increase demand on community-based organizations—while shrinking the tools and resources needed to meet that demand.

Social Current has created resources to help you understand what’s at stake and take action:

Read our issue summary below or view as a PDF
Contact your senators with our sample message

Key Concerns

1. Medicaid Access at Risk

The bill maintains provisions that significantly increase administrative barriers to Medicaid and CHIP, including more frequent eligibility redeterminations and new verification requirements.

These changes could cause eligible individuals—especially children, older adults, and people with disabilities—to lose coverage due to paperwork issues or flawed data flags. Additionally, the bill requires states to establish community engagement requirements for certain Medicaid enrollees. It authorizes the Secretary of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services to penalize non-compliant states by withholding federal funds.

Why It Matters

As coverage gaps widen and support systems are reduced, human services providers will face increased demand from clients needing assistance with re-enrollment and appeals processes. At the same time, if people lose Medicaid coverage, providers may see a direct impact on reimbursement for critical services. This double strain will divert already limited staff capacity from core functions such as behavioral health, trauma recovery, and crisis response.

2. Hunger and Hardship Through SNAP Restrictions

The bill expands work requirements for SNAP recipients and significantly limits states’ ability to waive them—even during periods of high unemployment. According to the Center on Budget and Policy Priorities, the work requirements jeopardize benefits for nearly 11 million people, about 1 in 4 SNAP participants.

The bill also imposes an expiration date on exemptions for veterans, former foster youth, and individuals experiencing homelessness. It shifts program costs to states and requires more frequent eligibility redeterminations.

Why It Matters

These changes will increase hunger and instability for people who are already facing significant barriers. Nonprofits will see higher demand for emergency food, housing, and employment support, with fewer federal resources to meet that need.

3. Burdensome Requirements in Accessing the Earned Income Tax Credit

The bill requires taxpayers to apply for an Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) certificate for each child claimed beginning in tax year 2028. It establishes fines for reckless, false, and fraudulent statements, increases audits of EITC recipients, and strengthens eligibility verifications. Individuals with repeated incidents may be barred from claiming the credit for two years with evidence of reckless disregard or ten years in the case of fraud. Claims without a certificate may be denied, delayed, or refunds reduced.

Why It Matters

Low-income taxpayers, especially working families and single parents, may face higher risks of audits, even for minor filing errors. Accidental income, relationship, or residency mismatches can trigger audits or refund holds.

Precertification may discourage taxpayers from claiming the credit due to burdensome time and paperwork requirements, while system challenges may lead to needless claim denials. It also raises confusion and uncertainty about whether the child was to be claimed by multiple taxpayers.

4. Student Loan Limits and Changes to Loan Terms

The bill restricts the amount of loans students are eligible to borrow for undergraduate, graduate, and professional programs. It establishes a lifetime limit to the total amount students are able to borrow regardless of amounts repaid, forgiven, canceled, or discharged on a loan. Additionally, the bill prohibits unemployment and economic hardship deferments for loans disbursed on or after July 1, 2025. It would limit the term of forbearance allowed to nine months over two years.

Why It Matters

Countless professionals within the social service sector rely on student loans to afford their education. Financial barriers may prevent individuals from completing their degrees and entering careers in the nonprofit sector. Borrowing limits introduce significant challenges to individuals seeking to advance their education and are expected to exacerbate ongoing staffing shortages the mental health field experiences.

Next Steps: Senate Deliberation

Now that the House has passed H.R. 1, the bill moves to the Senate for consideration. While Republicans hold a 53-47 majority, the bill faces potential revisions due to divergent views within the party. Some Republican Senators have expressed concerns over the bill’s impact on Medicaid and other social programs, indicating that amendments may be proposed to address these issues.

Take Action Now

We need your voice in this next phase.

Social Current’s online campaign makes it easy: Contact your senators.

To stay informed about federal policy changes and receive information about action opportunities, subscribe to our biweekly policy newsletter and join the grassroots advocacy network.

Congress is moving quickly on a sweeping reconciliation bill that would severely impact the human services sector and the communities we serve. The bill still includes major provisions that would:

Force more people off Medicaid by adding red tape and frequent eligibility checks
Expand SNAP work requirements and limit states’ flexibility to respond to hunger and hardship
Increase tax burdens and compliance costs for nonprofit organizations and their staff, including penalties on modest benefits and operational revenue

These changes are not just technical—they threaten the stability of the safety net and the capacity of nonprofits to meet rising demand.

Social Current has created resources to help you understand what’s at stake and take action:

Read our issue summary below or view as a PDF
Contact your representative with our sample message

House Reconciliation Issue Summary

Overview

Congress is considering a sweeping reconciliation bill that threatens access to basic health, nutrition, and social services—and undermines the nonprofit sector’s ability to respond. While advocacy efforts have succeeded in removing some of the most extreme proposals, serious risks remain.

Key Concerns

Medicaid Access at Risk: The bill maintains provisions that would significantly increase administrative barriers to Medicaid and CHIP, including more frequent eligibility redeterminations and new verification requirements. These changes would cause eligible individuals—especially children, older adults, and people with disabilities—to lose coverage simply because of paperwork issues or flawed data flags.

Why It Matters: As coverage gaps widen and support systems are reduced, human service providers will face increased demand from clients who need help navigating re-enrollment and appeals processes. This will divert limited staff capacity away from their core services—such as behavioral health, trauma recovery, and crisis response.
Hunger and Hardship Through SNAP Restrictions: The bill expands work requirements for SNAP recipients and significantly limits states’ ability to waive them—even during periods of high unemployment. According to research and policy analysts at the Center on Budget and Policy Priorities, the work requirements jeopardize benefits for nearly 11 million people, about 1 in 4 SNAP participants.
The bill also imposes an expiration date on exemptions for veterans, former foster youth, and individuals experiencing homelessness. It significantly shifts program costs to states and requires states to conduct more frequent eligibility redeterminations.

Why It Matters: These changes will increase hunger and instability for people already facing significant barriers. Nonprofits will see higher demand for emergency food, housing, and employment support, with fewer federal resources to meet that need.
Burdensome Requirements in Accessing the Earned Income Tax Credit: The bill requires taxpayers to apply for an Earned Income Tax Credit certificate for each child claimed beginning in tax year 2028. It establishes fines for reckless, false, and fraudulent statements, while increasing audits of EITC recipients and strengthening eligibility verifications. Individuals with repeated incidents may be barred from claiming the credit for two years with evidence of reckless disregard, or ten years in the case of fraud. Claims without a certificate may be denied, delayed, or the refunds may be reduced.

Why It Matters: Low-income taxpayers, especially working families and single parents, may face higher risks of audits, even for minor filing errors. Accidental mismatches in income, relationship, or residency can trigger audits or refund holds.

Precertification may also discourage taxpayers from claiming the credit due to burdensome time and paperwork requirements, while system challenges may lead to needless claim denials. It also raises confusion and uncertainty if the child were to be claimed by multiple taxpayers.

View and print the issue summary as a PDF.

Take Action

We urge Congress to:

Protect streamlined Medicaid and CHIP enrollment processes
Preserve state flexibility in SNAP administration
Reject provisions that make it harder for nonprofits to serve their communities

Contact Your Lawmakers Today

Social Current’s online campaign makes it easy to contact your members of Congress and urge them to oppose these harmful provisions. Take action now.

To stay informed about federal policy changes and receive information about action opportunities, subscribe to our biweekly policy newsletter and join the grassroots advocacy network.

The House Energy and Commerce, Ways and Means, and Agriculture Committees held hearings on key provisions of the fiscal year 2026 budget bill, which passed the House Budget Committee on Sunday following a failed vote Friday. The House Rules Committee has scheduled a hearing for Wednesday, May 21 at 1 a.m. EST to review the revised proposal.

The latest Rules Committee print includes several significant changes:

Removal of a provision that would have revoked due process for nonprofits found to have provided material support to terrorism within the past three years.
Acceleration of Medicaid work requirements to take effect in 2027—two years earlier than previously proposed.

Lawmakers are continuing to negotiate the bill text as House leadership aims to send the budget to the Senate before Memorial Day.

Key Proposals in Committee Drafts

Medicaid Coverage and Enrollment Restrictions

Reduces retroactive Medicaid and CHIP coverage from three months to one.
Halts implementation of new federal rules to simplify enrollment and renewal processes.
Requires verified citizenship or immigration status for enrollment.
Imposes work requirements of at least 80 hours per month for some populations.
Increases eligibility redetermination frequency and tightens address verification rules.
The Congressional Budget Office estimates at least 8.6 million people would lose coverage by 2034.

Affordable Housing and Investment Incentives

Increases low-income housing tax credit allocations by 12.5% through 2029.
Extends and modifies the Opportunity Zones program.

SNAP Work Requirements and Funding Changes

Raises state and county cost share for administration from 50% to 75%.
Increases the general SNAP work requirement age from 60 to 64.
Limits states’ ability to waive work requirements unless county unemployment exceeds 10% and the governor consents.
Sunsets exemptions in 2030 for veterans, unhoused individuals, and youth formerly in foster care.

Tax Credits

Increases the Child Tax Credit to $2,500 through 2028; reverts to $2,000 in 2029. Requires U.S. citizenship and Social Security Numbers for all household members.
Expands IRS enforcement of the Earned Income Tax Credit, which may heighten audits of low-income workers.

Nonprofit Tax Rules and Oversight

Redefines fringe benefits—including transit stipends, wellness programs, and moving expenses—as taxable under Unrelated Business Income Tax (UBIT).

NIH and CMS Launch Partnership to Advance Autism Research

The National Institutes of Health (NIH) and the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) have formed a research partnership to investigate the root cause of autism spectrum disorder. The collaboration will begin with a data use agreement focused on analyzing healthcare utilization, chronic disease etiology and treatment, and the economic burden of chronic conditions.

Researchers will examine trends in autism diagnosis, health outcomes of specific medical and behavioral interventions, disparities in access to care by demographics and geography, and the financial impact on families and health care systems. The agencies aim to enhance data sharing to inform more equitable, effective care strategies.

U.S. Department of Education Issues Guidance on Unsafe School Choice Option

TThe U.S. Department of Education’s Office of Elementary and Secondary Education has released a Dear Colleague Letter to state education leaders, offering updated guidance on the Unsafe School Choice Option through the Elementary and Secondary Education Act of 1965 (ESEA). The provision requires states to implement a policies allowing students to transfer from schools identified as unsafe or when they have been victims of violent crimes on school grounds.

The department urged states to regularly review and update the state’s definition of a “persistently dangerous school” and improve processes for collecting school safety data. It emphasized the importance of student safety and encouraged collaboration between state and local education agencies to strengthen school safety measures and enhance the learning experience provided to students.

Executive Order Establishes “Project Homecoming” for Voluntary Departures

On May 9, President Donald Trump signed an executive order launching Project Homecoming, a federal initiative to facilitate the voluntary departure of undocumented immigrants from the United States. The order authorizes federal funding for individuals who chose to leave voluntarily, even if they do not possess official travel documents. Those who do not participate will be subject to removal, prosecution, incarceration, fines, the garnishment of wages, and the confiscation of savings and personal property.

House Committee Weighs Benefits and Challenges of Charter Schools

The House Education and Workforce Committee held a hearing to examine the role of charter schools in addressing challenges in the U.S. education system.

Republican lawmakers highlighted charter schools’ innovative models and growing parental support, while Democrats emphasized the need for oversight, transparency, and the protection of civil rights.

Witnesses discussed expanding high-quality charter schools to improve student achievement and proposed using federal tax-exempt private activity bonds to support this growth. Genevieve Siegel-Hawley, an education professor at Virginia Commonwealth University, presented data showing that charter schools can divert resources from public schools and pose barriers to transportation and disability services for students.

The hearing underscored ongoing debates over how best to promote educational equity and access across diverse student populations.

Updates from the Judiciary

Federal Judge Blocks New Conditions on Transit and Homelessness Grants

A federal judge has temporarily blocked the Trump administration from imposing new conditions on hundreds of millions of dollars in federal grants related to homelessness and transit services.

The U.S. District Court for the District of Columbia issued a temporary restraining order after eight cities and counties, including Boston, New York City, San Francisco, California’s Santa Clara County, and Washington state’s Pierce and Snohomish counties, filed suit. The plaintiffs challenged new grant requirements that would have forced them to eliminate equity, diversity, and inclusion policies, cooperate with federal immigration enforcement, and restrict access to abortion-related information.

Senior U.S. District Judge Barbara Rothstein ruled that the administration’s conditions were not authorized by Congress, were unrelated to the purposes of the grants, and would not improve program administration.

The order prohibits the Department of Housing and Urban Development, the Department of Transportation, and the Federal Transit Administration from enforcing the new conditions or withholding funding until May 21.

Trump Administration Reviews Mental Health Parity Rule, Pauses Legal Challenge

The Trump Administration is reconsidering a 2024 federal rule designed to strengthen mental health parity protections for Americans with private insurance.

The U.S. Justice Department asked the U.S. District Court for Washington, D.C. to pause a lawsuit challenging the rule while the Departments of Health and Human Services, Treasury, and Labor evaluate whether to rescind it. The rule, finalized in September 2024, aimed to close loopholes in the 2008 Mental Health Parity and Addiction Equity Act (MHPAEA) by targeting non-quantitative treatment limits such as poor authorization, network access, and drug formulary restrictions.

The lawsuit was brought by the ERISA Industry Committee, representing large employers which argued that the rule exceeded the agencies’ authority. Judge Timothy J. Kelly granted a temporary pause in the case and set a follow-up hearing for Aug. 7, by which time the agencies must report their decision.

In the interim, the administration has reportedly informed the ERISA Industry Committee of its intent to halt enforcement of the rule.

Throughout 2024, Social Current continued its efforts to activate the power of the social sector and effect broader systemic change in support of an equitable society where all people can thrive. In collaboration with our network and partners, we focused on strengthening our influence, our voices, and our impact.

We are grateful to have your support as we continue to strengthen and amplify the work of the social sector to facilitate impact and systemic change through our core solutions and impact areas.

Our 2024 Year in Review features:

A note from Social Current President and CEO Jody Levison-Johnson
Engagement stats for our partnerships and service offerings: COA Accreditation, Impact Partnerships, Consulting, and Knowledge and Insights Center
Milestones related to our five core integrated impact areas
Highlights of SPARK 2024

Download the full report.