House Ban on Acorn Grant is Ruled Unconsitutional

WASHINGTON - The federal government must continue to provide grant money to the national community organizing group Acorn, a federal court ruled Friday, saying that the House violated the Constitution when it passed a resolution barring the group from receiving federal dollars.

A judge at the United States District Court in Brooklyn issued a preliminary injunction that nullifies the resolution and requires the government to honor existing contracts with the group and review its applications for new grants unless the Obama administration appeals the decision.

In the opinion, Judge Nina Gershon wrote of Acorn, "They have been singled out by Congress for punishment that directly and immediately affects their ability to continue to obtain federal funding, in the absence of any judicial, or even administrative, process adjudicating guilt."

The chief executive of Acorn, Bertha Lewis, issued a statement calling the ruling a victory for the group and "the citizens who work through Acorn to improve their communities and promote responsible lending and home ownership."

In a lawsuit filed last month, Acorn argued that it was penalized by Congress without "an investigation" and has been forced to cut programs that counsel struggling homeowners and to lay off workers.

I feel that it is outrageous that Congress would feel that it is unnecessary to continue to fund this beneficial program. Not only does it help out those in need, which there are many who are, but it aids the impoverished communities. Especially since as a country we are experiencing such harsh economic times, and helping one another out is extremely imperative. How does Congress think we are going to get out of this recession if we do not help each other deal with these unfortunate times. We must not forget those who struggle the most. Thankfully, Acorn will continue to receive funds, as it rightfully deserves since it does so much good for our nation.

http://www.nytimes.com/2009/12/12/us/politics/12acorn.html?_r=1&ref=politics