Transport Secretary Shawn Duffy cautioned the state on Thursday that they risk losing federal financing for roads, bridges, and various infrastructure initiatives if they persist in endorsing diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) programs. Such initiatives interfere with President Trump’s immigration enforcement strategies or oppose other directives issued by the administration.
“Federal grants come with a clear duty to adhere to federal law,” Duffy articulated in a statement made public. In the letter sent to all beneficiaries of the Department of Transport (DOT) funds, he stated further, “This shouldn’t be contentious. We will enforce our immigration regulations, abolish anti-American DEI initiatives, and defend free speech.”
“These principles represent American values, and we will act to ensure compliance,” he continued.
Duffy highlighted in his correspondence that federal fund recipients, including state and local governing entities, are “duty-bound to engage in legally binding agreements with the US government and wholly adhere to all relevant federal statutes and regulations.”
The Transport Secretary specifically referenced the Supreme Court’s 2023 decision against affirmative action as a justification for withdrawing funds from states implementing DEI programs, pointing out that issuing driver licenses to undocumented immigrants and obstructing immigration and customs enforcement inquiries would also be grounds for retracting financial support.
DOT “will grant and continue to supply federal financial assistance only to those recipients who adhere to legal requirements,” Duffy stated.
This letter arrives as the Trump administration aims to reduce state initiatives that contradict the president’s policies. Maine risks losing federal funds unless it prohibits state trans athletes from competing in women’s sports. Likewise, the Trump administration previously attempted to withdraw funding from schools and colleges with DEI programs, but a judge intervened on Thursday to halt this initiative.
Duffy urged the state to consult with the agency if there were any uncertainties regarding compliance with DOT’s funding guidelines, emphasizing that “proactive engagement is highly encouraged to avoid unintentional breaches.”
“DOT continues to focus on enhancing a transportation system that will effectively serve the public interest and foster economic growth and high living standards for American families,” he noted.
“This goal depends on thorough adherence to the legal framework that governs our collaboration, and we are committed to taking all necessary measures to comply with federal law and fulfill our legal responsibilities,” the secretary concluded.
