A coalition of state attorneys general has filed a lawsuit against the Trump administration’s attempt to halt the development of wind energy. Attorneys general from 17 states and Washington, D.C., are challenging an executive order signed by Trump during his first day in office that paused approvals, permits, and loans for all wind energy projects both onshore and offshore. They argue that Trump lacks the authority to unilaterally shut down the permitting process and is jeopardizing the development of a critical power source for the states’ economic vitality, energy mix, public health, and climate goals. The lawsuit seeks a federal judge’s declaration that the order is unlawful and demands that federal agencies cease its implementation. This action threatens thousands of jobs and billions in investments, delaying the transition away from fossil fuels. The Trump administration has also suspended federal funding for floating offshore wind research in Maine and revoked a permit for a proposed offshore wind project in New Jersey. — new from AP News
