The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) has paused all funding for programs in the University of Maine (UMaine) system, citing an ongoing review of potential civil rights violations.
A USDA spokesperson confirmed that the funding freeze amounts to $100 million in grants and contracts. UMaine officials said on March 11 they have received about $30 million for fiscal year 2024 so far.
According to the university, the withheld funds will affect a wide range of projects, including local 4-H youth leadership programs, agricultural and aquacultural research, and initiatives to help farmers and ranchers control pests and livestock diseases.
In an email to UMaine, the USDA explained that it is weighing whether to take further steps to address potential violations of Title IX, which prohibits sex-based discrimination, and Title VI, which bars discrimination on the basis of race, color, or national origin. The department made it clear that the funding freeze will remain in place “until further notice” as the review continues….