California Attorney General Rob Bonta has announced that a preliminary injunction has been granted by the U.S. District Court for the District of Rhode Island in response to California’s lawsuit against the Trump Administration. The lawsuit challenges the administration’s decision to dismantle parts of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) and lay off employees. The court’s decision prevents any further action on these plans while legal proceedings continue.
Attorney General Bonta expressed satisfaction with the court’s ruling, stating, “The work of HHS is absolutely critical to the safety and health of millions of Americans. We are pleased the court temporarily halted the Trump Administration’s unlawful dismantling of the agency so that HHS can continue its important work.” He added, “The Trump Administration is not only acting against the best interest of Americans nationwide but is once again acting beyond its power.”
The initial announcement regarding cuts to HHS was made on March 27, 2025, by HHS Secretary Robert F. Kennedy as part of the “Make America Healthy Again” directive. This resulted in programs under HHS ceasing operations and staff layoffs, affecting access to essential services like disease control, smoking reduction efforts, and early childhood programs.
On May 5, 2025, Attorney General Bonta joined forces with a coalition of 20 attorneys general to file a lawsuit challenging these actions. A motion for a preliminary injunction was filed shortly after on May 9, 2025, leading to today’s court decision.
