politics
Court: “Because Trump said to” may not be a legally valid defense
The “arbitrary and capricious” standard strikes down another administration action.
TL;DR
- US District Court Judge Patti Saris vacated a Trump executive order that halted offshore wind power development.
- The order suspended all permitting for wind power on federal land and waters pending a review.
- States and wind power industry groups sued, arguing the suspension was arbitrary and capricious.
- The court found the government's defense relied solely on the former president's directive, lacking a reasoned explanation.
- The ruling does not guarantee immediate approval of wind projects but removes a legal basis for indefinite delays.
- Further lawsuits may occur if agencies continue to slow-walk leasing and licensing processes.