Judicial Block on Science Funding Cuts Stirs Debate

A U.S. judge extended an order to block the Trump administration's funding cuts to scientific research. The cuts threaten thousands of research institutions' operations, sparking lawsuits from state attorneys general and universities. The judge aims to decide quickly on the legality of the administration's actions.

A federal judge in the United States extended an order on Friday, blocking President Donald Trump's administration from reducing grant funding for scientific research. This decision comes as potential budget cuts loom over thousands of universities and research institutions.

In a hearing held in Boston, U.S. District Judge Angel Kelley expressed concerns over the immediate harm the planned cuts might cause. These cuts are part of Trump's broader effort to reduce federal spending and government size, undertaken after his return to the presidency on January 20.

The judge's order follows lawsuits filed by 22 Democratic state attorneys general and advocacy groups. Universities warn that the cuts, capping indirect cost reimbursement at 15%, could lead to layoffs and lab closures, a matter Kelley intends to rule on swiftly.