Attorney General Ellen Rosenblum today joined 16 states in filing a lawsuit in the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of California challenging President Trump’s declaration of a national emergency and his attempt to divert funding appropriated by Congress.

The states allege in the complaint that the Trump Administration’s action exceeds the power of the executive office, violates the U.S. Constitution and federal statutes, and would illegally and unconstitutionally divert federal funds appropriated by Congress for other purposes. The suit seeks declaratory and injunctive relief to block the emergency declaration, the construction of the wall, and any illegal diversion of congressionally-appropriated funds.

Statement from AG Rosenblum:

“Today, we joined California, New Mexico and 14 other states and filed suit against the Trump Administration for flagrantly skirting the Rule of Law by declaring a national emergency for an improper political purpose. To pay for his false “emergency”, Mr. Trump is willing to take away funding from national security, drug intervention projects, and military upgrades that our states need. The President needs a check and balance on his authority—so once again, we will see him in court.”

The lawsuit was led by California Attorney General Becerra, and joined by Colorado, Connecticut, Delaware, Hawaii, Illinois, Maine, Maryland, Michigan, Minnesota, Nevada, New Jersey, New Mexico, New York, Oregon and Virginia.