Trump uses contested power to cut nearly $1B US in Congress-approved spending

President Trump has announced the cancellation of nearly $1 billion in funding that was previously approved by Congress, according to the White House. This action, known as a pocket rescission, marks the second time the administration has utilized this rarely employed tactic. The White House contends that the move targets wasteful and harmful government spending that does not serve American citizens' interests.

The administration is eliminating $567 million in funds allocated for refugee, asylee, and migrant services, as well as $50 million in funds for various immigrant and non-citizen aid programs. Additionally, $70 million in international education grants and fellowships and $56 million in Housing and Urban Development initiatives are being rescinded.

The White House claims it will recoup the funds through the pocket rescission process, which grants the president the authority to propose budget cuts. However, the Imposition Control Act allows Congress 45 legislative days to either approve or override these proposals. Despite the fiscal year concluding on Wednesday, the administration is effectively withholding the funds until their expiration.

Critics, including Republican Senator Susan Collins and Democratic Representative Rosa DeLauro, assert that the White House intentionally delayed informing lawmakers of the cancellations, suggesting an attempt to circumvent congressional approval of the appropriations.