Maryland AG Joins Lawsuit Challenging Termination of Energy and Infrastructure Funding

Maryland Attorney General Anthony G. Brown has joined a coalition of 13 state attorneys general in a lawsuit against the Trump administration, challenging the recent termination of billions of dollars in energy and infrastructure program funding. The lawsuit, filed in the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of California, asserts that the U.S. Department of Energy and the Office of Management and Budget unlawfully ended these congressionally authorized initiatives, which were established through landmark legislation like the 2022 Inflation Reduction Act and the 2021 Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act.

The legal action stems from executive orders issued by President Trump on his first day in office, which declared a “national energy emergency” and sought to terminate the “Green New Deal.” Following these directives, the Department of Energy identified energy and infrastructure awards totaling billions of dollars for potential elimination. In May 2025, the Department of Energy issued a policy memorandum outlining a review process for previously funded projects, which the lawsuit contends was designed to facilitate the dismantling of these programs. Reports from late September 2025 indicated that the administration intended to implement irreversible cuts during a potential government shutdown, targeting programs favored by political opponents. The Office of Management and Budget subsequently announced the termination of nearly $8 billion in funding, citing environmental agenda criticisms and listing sixteen states, predominantly Democratic-leaning, where projects would be affected.

In Maryland specifically, the Department of Energy terminated or halted three cooperative agreements valued at over $5.8 million that were intended for the University of Maryland, College Park. These agreements were designated to support research in advanced heat pump systems and next-generation refrigeration technologies, innovations aimed at reducing energy consumption. The termination of these funds could impact potential benefits for Maryland families, including lower energy bills and more affordable heating and cooling solutions. Furthermore, these programs were linked to broader environmental goals, such as cleaner air and a healthier Chesapeake Bay, which contribute to public health across the state.

The complaint argues that the Trump administration’s actions violate the separation of powers doctrine and the Administrative Procedure Act, as federal agencies are obligated to uphold laws enacted by Congress. The coalition of attorneys general is seeking a court declaration that the administration’s decisions are unlawful and requests a permanent injunction to prevent further interference with these vital energy and infrastructure programs. The lawsuit was filed in conjunction with the attorneys general of California, Colorado, Connecticut, Illinois, Massachusetts, New Jersey, New York, Oregon, Rhode Island, Vermont, Washington, and Wisconsin.

Article by Mel Anara, based upon information from the Maryland Attorney General’s Office

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