U.S. District Judge John Woodcock is weighing whether to block the Department of Agriculture from withholding the funds to Maine over alleged Title IX violations, or if the case should be referred to the Federal Claims Court.
USDA
Cuts to federal food program put local farms, schools in a bind
The Trump administration is ending a program that helped districts and producers bring local food to Maine students.
USDA freezes funds to Maine education, citing Title IX violations
The agency will freeze an unknown amount of money for ‘administrative and technological functions’ in schools but will not pause federal food programs or direct assistance for Mainers.
King, Pingree demand answers on why USDA cut local food programs
Sen. Angus King joins dozens of Senate colleagues in calling for the funding to be restored.
Maine under attack? Trump-Mills clash is followed by chaos and confusion
The president singled out Maine’s governor in a Feb. 21 meeting at the White House; she replied, ‘See you in court.’ Some national observers say Maine is feeling the consequences.
USDA halts millions in funding for University of Maine System
The move temporarily pauses the system’s agricultural research and programs weeks after President Donald Trump threatened to cut funding for Maine because it allows transgender athletes to compete in sports.
Maine Coast Fishermen’s Association serves fish tots to local tots
Feeding the future generation, Maine Coast Fishermen’s Association has taken to lunch lines, serving up sustainably harvested local seafood. On Feb. 11, the group crafted a fish tot suitable for tiny hands, which was well received by Kate Furbish Elementary School students.
U.S. consumer watchdog finds school lunch fees are taking toll on parents
The U.S. Department of Agriculture has mandated that districts inform families of their options since 2017, but even when parents are aware, having to pay by cash or check to avoid fees can be burdensome.
Mold, bugs found at Va. Boar’s Head facility tied to listeria outbreak
The Boar’s Head plant in southern Virginia at the epicenter of a deadly nationwide listeria outbreak was found with mold and insects, according to USDA reports.
Saco Ecology School signs for USDA food grant
The Ecology School recently received a grant to support their mission of meeting fresh food needs in the community.