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‘It’s demoralizing’: Trump’s climate funding freeze has left tribes and community groups in limbo

Summary

The Trump administration’s decision to freeze federal climate funds has left tribal and community organizations without access to crucial resources. The Flandreau Santee Sioux Tribe, which received a $19.9 million EPA grant for infrastructure and resilience projects, is among those affected. Despite court orders mandating the release of funds, organizations are still waiting, causing stalled projects, financial losses, and potential layoffs. The freeze impacts billions in grants from the Inflation Reduction Act and the bipartisan infrastructure law. Environmental groups and legal experts warn of serious consequences for vulnerable communities. Although some funds were briefly restored, continued uncertainty remains.

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