US class-action lawsuit would force EPA to reinstate $3B climate program

9 months ago

The Trump administration terminated a $3bn climate disaster preparedness program, sparking a lawsuit.
A coalition of non-profits, tribes, and local governments is suing the EPA and its administrator, Lee Zeldin, for ending the Environmental and Climate Justice (ECJ) program.
The ECJ program was created by Congress through the 2022 Inflation Reduction Act to aid disadvantaged communities.
The program aimed to fund projects addressing environmental hazards like pollution, flooding, and urban heat islands.
In February, the Trump administration began terminating the ECJ program as part of a broader attack on climate action.
23 grant recipients sued in June after the program was abruptly terminated and funds were frozen.
Plaintiffs include diverse groups from across the U.S., such as Indigenous communities and environmental justice organizations.
Legal advocacy groups argue the termination violated the separation of powers and was arbitrary and capricious.
A hearing for preliminary relief is set for Tuesday in the U.S. District Court for the District of Columbia.
The Trump administration seeks to dismiss the case, claiming jurisdictional issues and suggesting individual lawsuits instead.
A ruling on the case's continuation is expected later this month.

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