A federal judge has temporarily blocked the Trump administration’s plan to freeze billions of dollars in federal funding for child care and social services, a move that local leaders say could have had immediate and devastating impacts on families in Sullivan County and across New York.

On Friday, a judge in New York’s Southern District issued a two-week temporary restraining order halting the administration’s plan to withhold funding from three major programs serving low-income families and people with disabilities. The proposed freeze targeted five Democratic-led states — including New York — and involved more than $10 billion in funding for programs such as Temporary Assistance for Needy Families and the Child Care and Development Fund, according to reporting by The New York Times.

The pause came after attorneys general from the affected states filed suit, warning that even a short interruption could disrupt child care, employment, and essential services for hundreds of thousands of households.

“It’s very scary”

In an interview with Radio Catskill, Nadia Rajsz, chair of the Sullivan County Legislature, said the uncertainty alone is already taking a toll.

Rajsz questioned how funding aimed at children and working families could be used as leverage in political disputes.

Ripple effects felt locally

While the lawsuit focuses on statewide funding streams, local officials say the consequences would be felt immediately at the county level. Child care subsidies, food assistance, and other social services are often the backbone that allows families to stay employed and financially stable.

Rajsz emphasized that rising costs have already pushed many households to the edge.

What happens next

The temporary order keeps funds flowing while the legal challenge continues. The case will now move forward under a different federal judge, with further hearings expected in the coming weeks.