Pallone: Trump’s $350 Million Cut to NJ Public Health Is a Dangerous, Lawless Stunt

WASHINGTON, DC - Congressman Frank Pallone, Jr. (D-NJ) today slammed the Trump Administration's decision to rip away $11 billion in public health funding - including $350 million already promised to New Jersey - calling it a "political stunt" that will endanger lives and destabilize the state's health system.

"Trump is stealing $350 million in approved funding from New Jersey without warning at the height of a measles outbreak and devasting fentanyl overdoses," Pallone said. "This isn't just a political stunt. It's lawless. These funds were already budgeted and, in many cases, spent by local health departments to keep vaccination clinics running, respond to outbreaks, and support addiction and mental health services. Stripping that money now means doctors go unpaid and critical care stops in its tracks. It's a dangerous preview of what public health looks like under another Trump term - gutted on a whim, with no regard for the people who will suffer."

The funding was originally authorized during the COVID-19 pandemic, but states like New Jersey had received federal approval to use the funds for other urgent public health needs. The Trump Administration's abrupt move to claw the funding back blindsided state officials and puts essential health services at risk just as New Jersey confronts new disease threats and ongoing overdose spikes.

Pallone, the top Democrat on the House Energy and Commerce Committee, said he's working closely with Governor Phil Murphy and congressional leaders to pursue all available options to block the clawback and restore the funds.

"This fight is not over," Pallone said. "We're going to do everything we can to stop Trump from sabotaging New Jersey's public health system."