Harris County Lawsuit Forces Trump Administration to Restore Refugee Health Funds
Harris County Attorney Christian D. Menefee announced today that the Trump administration has reversed course and begun releasing funding for Harris County’s Refugee Medical Screening Program in direct response to the County’s lawsuit. The Trump administration claimed that it was undergoing an audit of the County’s program. After a hearing on the County’s motion for a temporary restraining order, the Court ordered the administration to provide clear timelines for disbursing the funds. In response, the administration was forced to finish its pretextual “audit” and the money for this crucial program has begun flowing again. Today, the Trump administration agreed that Harris County should continue receiving the funding.
The Trump administration froze the funding in January, cutting off support for a program that provides critical healthcare to thousands of legally admitted refugees. When President Trump’s Department of Health and Human Services refused to release the Congressionally approved funds, Harris County took legal action.
“We shouldn’t have had to sue the federal government to get what Congress already approved,” said Harris County Attorney Christian D. Menefee. “President Trump’s actions endangered refugee communities and our broader public health. But we fought back—and now those funds are flowing again. This shows what happens when local governments stand up to federal overreach.”
Harris County Public Health’s Refugee Screening Program has served the region for over 40 years, delivering essential medical care to people fleeing war, persecution, and human trafficking. The program also plays a key role in in containing the spread of infectious diseases—especially critical now amid a measles outbreak in Texas.
“This is a big win for the people of Harris County, the rule of law, and the diverse communities I’m honored to serve,” said Commissioner Lesley Briones. “For over 40 years, the Refugee Medical Screening Clinic has provided vital health services to legal immigrants, and the work of the Clinic helps make our entire community safer and healthier. I’m proud that we stood up, took action, and got results. Harris County will continue to be a place that welcomes families seeking safety and opportunity.”
With funding restored, Harris County preserves one of the region’s most effective public health programs and avoids laying off more than 30 specialized staff.