Washington state has joined 18 other attorneys general in a lawsuit against the Trump administration, challenging its decision to halt wind energy development. The lawsuit was filed following President Trump's presidential memo issued on January 20, which indefinitely paused all federal approvals necessary for offshore and onshore wind energy projects pending a federal review.
Attorney General Nick Brown emphasized the importance of clean energy resources, stating, “We can’t unleash American energy by kneecapping some of the fastest growing, most innovative, and cleanest resources in the country.” He warned that without a robust clean energy economy, there could be negative impacts such as worsening climate change and more expensive fossil fuel-based energy.
The attorneys general argue that the president’s directive disrupts their states’ efforts to secure reliable and affordable sources of energy. It also jeopardizes investments made in wind industry infrastructure and workforce development. Washington's ability to meet greenhouse gas emissions requirements is particularly at risk due to this federal action.
Wind power plays a significant role in Washington’s renewable energy generation, second only to hydroelectric power. In 2024 alone, Washington produced 8,421 Megawatt hours from wind power. Unlike fossil fuels with volatile market conditions, wind power contributes to Washington's economic stability.
The lawsuit claims that the president’s directive violates the Administrative Procedure Act and other federal laws by failing to provide a justified explanation for halting wind energy development. The sudden policy shift contradicts previous federal actions supporting other forms of energy and disregards established procedures for permitting and approvals.
The attorneys general are seeking a court declaration that deems the president’s directive illegal and prevents further administrative actions delaying or stopping wind energy development. Alongside Attorney General Brown are attorneys general from Arizona, California, Colorado, Connecticut, Delaware, District of Columbia, Illinois, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, New Jersey, New York, New Mexico, Oregon, and Rhode Island.
A copy of the complaint is publicly available for review.
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