Trump Administration Uses 'Pocket Rescission' to Cancel $810M in Approved Spending

The White House canceled roughly $810 million in congressionally approved spending — including $567 million from HHS refugee and unaccompanied-minor services, plus migrant education, DOJ racial-tension programs, minority business development and housing counseling funds — using a 'pocket rescission' that runs out the 45-day congressional review clock before the fiscal year ends. The GAO has found the tactic unlawful under the Impoundment Control Act; Senate Appropriations Chair Susan Collins called it illegal, and Sen. Patty Murray accused the administration of ignoring Congress's spending laws.