New York City is preparing to file a lawsuit against the Trump administration over its decision to seize more than $80 million in FEMA funds that were allocated to help house migrants. Mayor Eric Adams’ office confirmed that the lawsuit will be filed by February 21, 2025.
Background on FEMA Funding Dispute
The funding in question was awarded under President Joe Biden’s administration but was not disbursed until last week. According to City Comptroller Brad Lander, officials discovered on Wednesday morning that the money was missing from the city’s accounts.
The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) had initially granted the funds to support migrant housing efforts, including accommodations at the Roosevelt Hotel in Manhattan, which has been used as a migrant relief center.
Trump Administration’s Justification for the Fund Seizure
Concerns About Illegal Activities
Court documents filed on Tuesday revealed that FEMA’s acting administrator cited concerns about illegal activities at a hotel as the reason for clawing back the funds.
A spokesperson for the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) further explained:
“FEMA was funding the Roosevelt Hotel that serves as a Tren de Aragua base of operations and was used to house Laken Riley’s killer. There will not be a single penny spent that goes against the interest and safety of the American people.”
The reference to Tren de Aragua, a Venezuelan criminal gang, suggests federal authorities believe the hotel was being misused.
DOGE Claims Funds Were Misused
Additionally, Elon Musk’s Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) accused the city of wasting taxpayer money on luxury accommodations for migrants.
New York City’s Response
Mayor Eric Adams has strongly opposed the decision, stating that the funding was critical for the city’s migrant response efforts.
On Friday, Adams confirmed that he raised the issue during a meeting with border czar Tom Homan, hoping to restore the funds.
Lawsuit & Legal Arguments
New York City’s lawsuit will argue that:
- The funds were legally awarded under the Biden administration.
- The Trump administration’s decision to revoke the funds was politically motivated.
- The city relied on FEMA funding to manage the migrant crisis effectively.
The legal battle will likely escalate tensions between New York City and the Trump administration over immigration policies and federal funding.
The dispute over FEMA funding highlights the ongoing clash between federal and local immigration policies. As New York City prepares to take legal action, the case could set a precedent for federal funding decisions under the Trump administration.
The outcome of this lawsuit will have significant implications for migrant aid programs, federal oversight, and city governance.
