Maryland Joins National Legal Action Over Federal DEI and Transgender Funding Regulations

Maryland Attorney General Anthony G. Brown is part of a coalition of 18 attorneys general challenging federal diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility funding regulations. This coalition has filed an amicus brief in the case San Francisco AIDS Foundation v. Trump, currently under consideration by the United States Court of Appeals for the 9th Circuit.

Overview of the Legal Challenge

The focus of this legal challenge is on executive orders issued by President Trump which require federal agencies to withdraw funding from “equity-related” programs and those that promote “gender ideology.” The coalition argues that these provisions create unlawful obstacles for organizations serving the LGBTQ+ community, particularly those that provide essential services to transgender individuals.

Impact on Local Organizations

• Baltimore Safe Haven, a nonprofit aiding transgender residents, is cited as a key plaintiff.
• Essential services targeted include those focused on HIV prevention and health care.
• According to Attorney General Brown, the executive orders pose a risk to the survival of nonprofits dependent on this funding.

The brief emphasizes the necessity of diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility (DEI) initiatives. These programs, according to the attorneys general, are not only lawful but beneficial in adhering to federal civil rights statutes. The coalition argues that the challenged provisions detrimentally affect their states and constituents by impeding assets associated with these essential DEI practices.

Consequences of Funding Withdrawal

The coalition highlights various consequences of the orders, particularly how they harm nonprofits and jeopardize services critical for the health and well-being of transgender individuals. The funding cuts disproportionately affect vulnerable communities already facing significant challenges.

Legal Proceedings and Support

A district court granted a preliminary injunction in favor of the plaintiffs. However, the federal administration has appealed this decision. Brown and the coalition are advocating for the appeals court to uphold the injunction, ensuring continued support for relevant community services.

The coalition comprises attorneys general from:

• California
• Colorado
• Connecticut
• Delaware
• Hawaii
• Illinois
• Maine
• Massachusetts
• Michigan
• Minnesota
• Nevada
• New Jersey
• New York
• Oregon
• Rhode Island
• Vermont
• Washington

This coalition seeks to protect the valuable resources that support LGBTQ+ communities from discriminatory federal mandates, advocating for a more inclusive and supportive environment in Maryland and beyond.