OLYMPIA, WA (MyBellinghamNow.com) – Washington is leading a group of 16 states that are suing the U.S. Department of Education over funding cuts to mental health programs.

Washington State Attorney General Nick Brown says the Department of Education illegally pulled grants that bring thousands of mental health professionals to K-12 schools.

Congress approved the grant funding following the 2022 mass shooting at a school in Uvalde, TX.

The program had shown promising results, including drops in suicide risk and absenteeism among students at high-need schools. But in April, the department sent out notices to schools cancelling future funding and claiming that the grants conflicted with the Trump administration’s priorities.

The AG’s Office says the decision could end “critical” mental health services in 90 school districts across northwest Washington starting this fall.

“School-based mental health programs can be a literal life saver for our students,” Attorney General Nick Brown said. “The Department of Education’s decision threatens the safety and well-being of our youth.”

The lawsuit, filed in federal court in Seattle, asks a judge to reverse the cuts and restore funding.