aap hhs funding lawsuit injunction pediatrics health.

FILE - The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services building is seen, April 5, 2009, in Washington. (AP Photo/Alex Brandon, File)

Judge orders HHS to restore funding for children’s health programs as lawsuit continues

A federal judge has ordered the Trump administration to restore nearly $12 million in funding to the American Academy of Pediatrics. U.S. District Judge Beryl Howell’s preliminary injunction granted late Sunday sided with AAP in saying evidence showed the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services was likely retaliating against the group when it terminated the grants in December. The funding in question supports numerous public health programs, including efforts to prevent sudden unexpected infant death and strengthen pediatric care in rural communities. HHS had said in letters to AAP that the grants no longer aligned with the department’s priorities. AAP alleged the cuts were instead made in retaliation for the group speaking out against administration positions and actions.

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