A federal judge has mandated the restoration of nearly $12 million in funding to the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP), a move that supports crucial health initiatives for children. The order comes amid ongoing legal disputes concerning the termination of these grants by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) in December 2022.
U.S. District Judge Beryl Howell issued a preliminary injunction late on Sunday, asserting that evidence indicated a likely “retaliatory motive” behind HHS’s decision to cut the funding. In her ruling, Howell emphasized that the case centers on whether the federal government exercised its authority to suppress public health policy discussions by retaliating against a reputable pediatric organization.
The terminated grants were instrumental in funding various public health programs. These included initiatives aimed at preventing sudden unexpected infant death, enhancing pediatric care in rural areas, and supporting adolescents grappling with substance use and mental health issues. AAP contended that the funding cuts were a response to their vocal opposition to the Trump administration’s health policies, particularly regarding vaccinations and gender-affirming care.
HHS, on the other hand, communicated to AAP that the grants were discontinued as they no longer aligned with the department’s priorities. The agency has denied any allegations of retaliation. In recent years, Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr., a long-time critic of vaccinations, has made significant alterations to childhood vaccine recommendations. In contrast, AAP has consistently advocated for pediatric vaccines and has issued its own recommendations, especially concerning COVID-19 vaccines, which diverge from federal guidance.
In her explanation, Howell stated that AAP demonstrated it would likely incur irreparable harm if the funding cuts were upheld. She also noted that the public interest favored allowing these health programs to continue operating during the legal proceedings.
Skye Perryman, president and CEO of Democracy Forward, which is representing AAP in the lawsuit, expressed confidence in the ruling. “No administration gets to silence doctors, undermine public health, or put kids at risk,” she stated. “We will not stop fighting until this unlawful retaliation is fully ended.”
A spokesperson for HHS and the department’s legal representatives have not provided comments regarding the ruling. The ongoing lawsuit continues to highlight the tension between federal health policies and the advocacy efforts of leading medical organizations.
