Responding to the Trump Administration’s Funding Challenges

Last Updated

March 28, 2025
Since the announcement of a federal funding “freeze,” threatened and actual cuts to federal funding for immigration legal services by the Trump administration have caused Immigration Legal Services (ILS) programs to scramble to navigate challenging and uncertain financial times. Program leaders and organization leaders are having to make very difficult decisions about the programs’ futures and sustainability that may include reduction in services or staffing. This guide provides information and action steps that an ILS program can take to plan accordingly, successfully navigate both short- and long-term financial obstacles, and avoid rushing to any decision that negatively impacts the ILS program or harms the clients.