In the News

By Cierra Genelle

A federal judge has put a temporary pause on the White House's plan to halt federal grants and loans.

The freeze on the funding could affect trillions of dollars and disrupt initiatives like health care research and education programs.

The Trump administration's plans to freeze federal aid were briefly paused until Monday by a federal judge.

Many nonprofit organizations, educators and others across the nation were left confused and concerned.

White House officials said the plans do not affect any service that the government is required to provide.

"This is not a blanket pause on federal assistance in grant programs," said Karoline Leavitt, White House press secretary. "Social Security benefits, Medicare benefits, food stamps, welfare benefits — assistance that is going directly to individuals will not be impacted."

It's not clear if the pause would have interrupted the flow of Medicaid funds to states.

Lawmakers who serve parts of Berks County and neighboring areas weighed in Tuesday.

Republican Congressman Dan Meuser —  who represents Berks, Schuylkill and several other counties in the 9th District — posted a statement on "X" that said in part, "With billions allocated in foreign aid and ideological government programs, the Trump administration is dedicated to thoroughly reviewing how taxpayer money is spent, ensuring it goes where it's truly needed."

Democratic Congresswoman Chrissy Houlahan who represents parts of Berks and Chester counties posted a statement on "X" that said in part, "I'm deeply concerned about President Trump's executive order freezing spending on federal grants. We are working to understand what this means."

Democratic Congresswoman Madeleine Dean, who represents parts of Montgomery and Berks counties, released a statement reading in part, "I am alarmed and deeply concerned. While we do not know the full scope of this abrupt, unlawful halt in critical resources — we do know that seniors, families, children, and the most vulnerable Pennsylvanians will suffer."

69 News reached out to several nonprofit organizations in Berks County, including the Helping Harvest food bank and the Hispanic Center.

The organizations said they're waiting to hear what exactly a funding pause could mean.

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