California leads U.S. states in challenging Trump administration's SS cuts

17/4/2025 16:10

California, along with a coalition of 21 other U.S. states, is challenging the federal government's sweeping changes to the Social Security Administration, arguing that the cuts harm millions of Americans who rely on the program for basic income and essential services.



California Attorney General Rob Bonta, along with 21 other state attorneys general, filed a legal brief in the case "American Association of People with Disabilities v. Dudek," arguing that the Trump administration's abrupt policy changes and staffing cuts at the SSA are causing serious disruptions and delays for people trying to access their benefits.



The coalition highlighted that these changes are especially harmful to older adults and people with disabilities, who depend on Social Security to pay rent, buy food, and afford medicine.



The administration of President Donald Trump has mandated a reduction of SSA staff from approximately 57,000 to 50,000 employees, a cut of more than 12 percent. Many of these reductions are expected through buyouts and early retirements, though layoffs are also anticipated. Critics argue these moves will make it more difficult for people to get the assistance they need.