U.S. HHS Plans to Cut USD600M in Public Health Grants Funding

(MENAFN) The US Department of Health and Human Services is advancing plans to eliminate approximately $600 million in public health grant allocations targeting four Democratic-controlled states, based on documentation of proposed cuts examined by The New York Times and distributed to congressional committees.

HHS will initiate termination procedures for grant disbursements to California, Minnesota, Illinois, and Colorado under the strategy, representing a major contraction in federal health assistance as the agency realigns resources toward initiatives matching current administration objectives.

This action emerges following last month's temporary nationwide freeze affecting roughly $5 billion in Public Health Infrastructure Grants—a suspension swiftly rescinded after emergency readiness concerns surfaced preceding harsh winter conditions.

An HHS representative indicated the grants facing elimination no longer align with President Donald Trump's administration's policy framework. The funding originated from a Biden-administration program supporting over 100 municipal and state public health agencies across a five-year timeline.

Public Health Infrastructure Grants were structured to bolster Centers for Disease Control and Prevention operations, encompassing data modernization projects and health equity initiatives.

Previous reports suggested the intended cancellations encompass resources designated for HIV and additional sexually transmitted infection prevention efforts.

The department has not yet issued a response.

MENAFN10022026000045017169ID1110720738