Press Release: States Sue Trump Administration Over Energy Projects
A coalition of 15 states has filed a lawsuit against the Trump administration, contesting its efforts to expedite energy-related projects while neglecting crucial environmental protections. The suit, initiated by Washington State Attorney General Nick Brown and supported by his counterparts from states including California and Oregon, alleges that the federal government is overstepping its authority and endangering vital ecosystems and cultural resources.
President Trump declared a "national energy emergency" on his first day in office through an executive order aimed at expanding oil and gas production. This order utilizes the Defense Production Act—a measure typically reserved for genuine crises—to fast-track federal eminent domain proceedings for energy projects. The attorneys general assert that agencies such as the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers and the Department of the Interior are circumventing established federal laws like the Clean Water Act and the Endangered Species Act as a result.
The lawsuit emphasizes that while reliable energy is essential, U.S. energy production is already at record levels. The attorneys general argue that the executive order is unlawful, undermines state rights, and threatens to harm essential water quality, wildlife habitats, and human health.
Oregon’s Attorney General Dan Rayfield highlighted the risks posed by the order, stating, “It deliberately cuts out clean energy projects, leaving our communities vulnerable to health hazards and environmental risks.” The coalition seeks a judicial declaration stating the executive order is unconstitutional, and they aim to prevent federal agencies from pursuing non-emergency permits under the guise of emergency measures.
In total, attorneys general from Arizona, Connecticut, Illinois, Massachusetts, Maine, Maryland, Michigan, Minnesota, New Jersey, Rhode Island, Vermont, and Wisconsin have joined this legal challenge against the federal government’s actions.
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