By michael vivar
Ideally, a government functions without anyone ever realizing it's an obtrusive part of their lives.
When government structures break down, it's noticed. People begin complaining about potholes in the street or the response time of firefighters.
Smooth operation requires adequate funding. On Jan. 27, 2025, Donald Trump ordered a pause on all federal grants, loans and financial assistance pending review.
Before it could take effect, US District Judge Loren AliKhan temporarily blocked the order until Feb. 3. Here are programs that could be affected if the block is lifted.
Non-profits like the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children fill logistical gaps not overseen by government authorities and depend on federal funding.
Community-based networks that care for the aged, including Meals on Wheels, have announced they may have to cut services.
President Trump is on the record as a climate change skeptic. Subsidies for alternative energy will be stopped, giving economic rivals like China the opportunity to step in.
Studies into diseases like cancer and a possibly impending H5N5 flu can't be turned on and off like a spigot. Progress will be blunted if lab work is halted.
Organizations dedicated to early child instruction such as the National Head Start Association have reported funds already awarded are inaccessible.
This has been a stated target for isolationist, Trump. Money for initiatives that fight overseas pandemics, disarm mines in conflict zones and many others will be cut.
The funding pause comes as Trump proposes to extend his Tax Cuts and Jobs Act which passed during his first term. It lowers taxes for the wealthiest Americans.