NY AG James vs. DOT Over Immigration-Linked Funding

New York Attorney General Letitia James has filed a lawsuit against the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) for what she deems unconstitutional conditions on federal transportation funding. The AG argues that DOT’s move to withhold billions in critical infrastructure funds from states not complying with the administration’s immigration agenda is an illegal overreach.

Attorney General James asserts that this maneuver by the DOT, led by Secretary Sean Duffy, violates the constitutional separation of powers, attempting to leverage Congress’ purse strings for political ends. This action, she claims, puts both immigrant communities and essential infrastructure at risk.

The coalition, including 19 other attorneys general, argues that the immigration enforcement condition imposed on transportation funding has no legal basis and is coercive, compelling states to choose between public safety and federal funds.

According to the AG, these unlawful conditions threaten billions in vital public safety funds. The list of at-risk programs includes the Federal-Aid Highway Program, Federal Transit Administration’s grant programs, Federal Railroad Administration’s Rail Crossing Elimination Grant Program, and Federal Aviation Administration’s Airport Improvement Program. These funds are crucial for maintaining safe roads, transit systems, rail crossings, and airport infrastructure.

“Once again, the administration is attempting to seize Congress’ power of the purse – this time at the expense of immigrant communities and vital infrastructure projects,” James stated. “We won’t allow the federal government to hold essential funding hostage to advance a political agenda.”

This lawsuit underscores the ongoing debate over immigration policy and its implications on federal funding, as states grapple with the balance between public safety and adherence to national immigration laws.

RELATED: James Leads Suit vs. HHS on Gender-Affirming Care

RELATED: Purdue Pharma Bankruptcy Plan Approved by NY AG