Maryland AG Anthony Brown and 25-State Coalition Reach Settlement Protecting AmeriCorps Funding and Service Programs
A multi-state coalition led by Maryland Attorney General Anthony G. Brown, alongside California, Colorado, and Delaware, has reached a formal settlement to protect national service programs and prevent sudden, unannounced cuts to AmeriCorps.
Key Terms of the Settlement
* Advance Notice Requirement: AmeriCorps cannot terminate grants en masse, initiate large-scale union workforce reductions, or dismiss service members en masse during Fiscal Year 2026 without providing at least 30 days' advance written notice to the coalition states, including the legal justification.
* Funding Commitments: AmeriCorps has agreed to obligate substantially all of its FY 2026 funding by September 30, 2026.
* Program Protections: Both the National Civilian Community Corps (NCCC) and AmeriCorps VISTA programs must be administered strictly in line with governing federal statutes, ensuring active member service terms cannot be unlawfully disrupted.
* Litigation Status: The federal lawsuit is placed on hold through February 1, 2027. If AmeriCorps complies with all conditions, the coalition will dismiss the action without prejudice; however, states retain the right to petition the court to lift the stay or file new challenges if violations occur.
Impact on Maryland & Nationwide Programs
* Federal Reversals: The underlying litigation had previously stopped administrative moves to cut nearly 90% of AmeriCorps staff, compelling the reinstatement of nearly $400 million in canceled programs and releasing over $184 million in withheld funds.
* Local Impact: The legal agreement protects over $14 million in direct funding for Maryland community programs.
* Community Services Covered: Programs supported statewide include public school teaching, housing construction and rehabilitation in Baltimore City, conservation and maintenance across Maryland state parks, and social services assisting elderly, low-income, and unhoused residents in Western Maryland and the Eastern Shore.
The Coalition
* Leadership: Co-led by Maryland Attorney General Anthony G. Brown and the attorneys general of California, Colorado, and Delaware.
* Participating States: Joined by attorneys general from 19 other states and territories (AZ, CT, DC, HI, IL, ME, MA, MI, MN, NV, NJ, NM, NY, NC, OR, RI, VT, WA, WI) along with the governors of Kentucky and Pennsylvania.
For official filings and case updates, view the full press release from the Maryland Office of the Attorney General.