California Attorney General Rob Bonta, along with a coalition of 18 attorneys general, has filed a lawsuit against the Trump Administration. The legal action challenges the administration's decision to halt the development of offshore wind energy. The attorneys general argue that this directive undermines their states' efforts to secure diverse and affordable energy sources, reduce emissions, and address climate change.
Attorney General Bonta stated, "The Trump Administration’s directive to halt the development of offshore wind energy is illegal." He emphasized that this decision could reverse progress in clean energy initiatives and have economic repercussions. According to Bonta, "In California, we will continue to hold the President accountable for breaking the law and protect our significant progress in expanding cleaner, cheaper energy for American families."
The controversy began on January 20 when President Trump issued a Presidential Memorandum halting federal approvals necessary for both offshore and onshore wind energy projects pending review. This action has stopped all permitting activities by federal agencies. Wind energy currently supplies over 10% of U.S. electricity and supports numerous jobs and economic activities.
California holds five federal offshore wind leases aimed at providing substantial clean energy to power homes. These developments are expected to create thousands of union jobs and increase tax revenue, particularly benefiting areas like Humboldt.
The lawsuit claims that the President's directive violates several federal laws, including the Administrative Procedure Act. The attorneys general seek a court declaration deeming the directive illegal and preventing further delays in wind energy development.
Joining Attorney General Bonta in this legal challenge are his counterparts from New York, Massachusetts, Arizona, Colorado, Connecticut, Delaware, District of Columbia, Illinois, Maine, Maryland, Michigan, Minnesota, New Jersey, New Mexico, Oregon, Rhode Island, and Washington.