Appropriations Committee warns of $430B federal funding freeze under Trump administration

The U.S. House Committee on Appropriations convened on May 8, 2025, to discuss the Fiscal Year 2026 budget request for the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI). The meeting highlighted significant concerns regarding federal funding and the administration's recent actions affecting law enforcement and public safety.

A key point raised during the hearing was the Trump administration's freeze on approximately $430 billion in federal funding, which had been allocated by Congress for various community programs across the nation. This freeze includes the termination of 365 Department of Justice (DOJ) grants aimed at violence prevention, victim services, and responses to hate crimes, impacting 34 states and two U.S. territories. The grants were designed to support critical services for crime victims and individuals facing substance use disorders.

Committee members expressed alarm over the administration's initiatives, including efforts to restore gun possession rights to convicted felons and domestic abusers. Concerns were also voiced regarding executive orders perceived as attempts to intimidate law firms and the reduction of oversight within the DOJ's public integrity section, which is tasked with combating corruption.

The committee emphasized the importance of strong oversight of the FBI, which operates with an annual budget exceeding $10 billion. FBI Director Patel was welcomed to provide testimony and answer questions regarding the bureau's operations and funding needs.

In his remarks, Chairman Cole acknowledged the historical context of discretionary spending, noting a significant shift in budget allocations over the decades. He pointed out that discretionary spending has decreased from 45% to 28% of the federal budget, while mandatory spending has increased. This context sets the stage for the committee's evaluation of the president's budget proposal for FY 2026, which will guide future appropriations.

The meeting underscored the committee's commitment to ensuring that federal resources are effectively utilized to enhance public safety and uphold the rule of law, while also addressing the broader implications of the administration's funding decisions.