Washington Leads 15-State Lawsuit Against Trump Fossil Fuel Order

Washington State, joined by 14 other states, has filed a federal lawsuit challenging President Donald Trump's executive order that declares a "national energy emergency" to accelerate permitting for fossil fuel projects by bypassing environmental laws. The lawsuit, led by Washington Attorney General Nick Brown, argues that the order unlawfully sidesteps critical environmental protections under laws like the Clean Water Act, Endangered Species Act, and National Historic Preservation Act, and excludes renewable energy sources such as wind and solar. The states contend that there is no genuine energy emergency, citing record-high U.S. energy production and the country’s status as a net energy exporter. They also claim the order undermines state authority to enforce water quality standards and climate change efforts, while promoting fossil fuel projects at the expense of environmental and public safety concerns. Trump’s order has prompted federal agencies to expedite fossil fuel infrastructure projects, shortening or bypassing reviews and public input processes, which the states say jeopardizes endangered species, habitats, and cultural resources. Supporters of the order argue it fulfills campaign promises to boost domestic energy production and national security, though critics see it as a politically motivated effort to lock in fossil fuel dominance.