James Blocks DOT’s Illegal Funding Conditions

New York Attorney General Letitia James has scored a decisive victory against the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) in a battle over billions in transportation funding.

In a landmark ruling, Judge from the U.S. District Court for the District of Rhode Island has granted a preliminary injunction, halting the DOT’s attempt to condition billions in critical funding on state cooperation with federal immigration enforcement.

Attorney General James and 19 other attorneys general filed suit against these funding conditions on May 13, arguing that the tie between transportation funds and immigration enforcement violates the constitutional separation of powers. The ruling underscores the principle that states cannot be compelled to align with a dangerous immigration agenda at the expense of public safety.

“This is a major win for New York and every state fighting to protect our immigrant communities,” James stated. “We are one step closer to ensuring our roads, airports, and transit systems get the support they need without illegal strings attached.”

The injunction specifically prohibits the administration from withholding transportation funding from states based on their immigration policies, a move that would have severely impacted the state’s ability to maintain essential infrastructure.

Attorney General James’ office has been at the forefront of legal battles against federal overreach and has fought tirelessly to safeguard the rights of immigrants and protect public welfare. This victory is a testament to the strength of New York’s legal system and its commitment to upholding constitutional principles.