Washington state has filed another lawsuit against the Trump administration — this time for rescinding over $9 million in congressionally approved funds meant to help fight climate change.
The lawsuit comes after the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration in May terminated two funding opportunities aimed at preparing for the effects of climate change, saying the programs were inconsistent with President Donald Trump’s new priorities.
In a news release Monday, the state Attorney General’s office called the move abrupt and unlawful.
The agency also said NOAA launched the programs in 2022 and 2023, after Congress had directed the agency to help states and other entities prepare for the effects of climate change.
Washington was among the states awarded funding through both programs, which emphasize “equity, inclusion, and engagement with historically underrepresented communities that are disproportionately exposed to the effects of climate change,” according to the Attorney General’s office.
In a statement, Attorney General Nick Brown said the loss of this funding jeopardizes jobs and threatens to undermine the state’s strategy to fight — and cope with the effects of — climate change.
“Climate change is here, and Washington communities need to prepare and build resilience,” Brown said. “The federal government promised funding to help local communities adapt, and we’re holding them to it.”
The lawsuit seeks to declare NOAA’s actions unlawful and unconstitutional and reverse the termination of the funds.
This is a developing story. Check back for updates.