A federal judge has temporarily halted the Trump administration’s plans to establish a $1.8 billion compensation fund for alleged victims of government “lawfare,” as controversy surrounding the proposal continues to grow.

The fund was announced earlier this month and would allow Americans who believe they were unfairly targeted by government investigations to seek financial compensation. The program emerged from a settlement involving President Donald Trump and the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) following the leak of Trump’s tax records.

Critics argue that the broad eligibility criteria could allow people prosecuted in connection with the January 6 Capitol riot to file claims. Nearly 1,600 individuals were charged in relation to the attack, including around 175 accused of using dangerous weapons or causing serious injuries to police officers.

Former Vice President Mike Pence condemned the proposal, saying it would be wrong to compensate individuals who took part in the violence. He emphasized that many police officers suffered injuries while defending the Capitol and that rewarding rioters would send the wrong message.

Despite criticism from both Democrats and Republicans, supporters of the fund argue that countless Americans were unfairly subjected to government investigations and deserve restitution. The Justice Department has defended the legality of the initiative and says it is confident the program will ultimately move forward. A court hearing on the matter is expected to take place on June 12, where the future of the fund will be decided.