Organisations opposing President Donald Trump's executive order to curb government regulations have launched legal action seeking to block it.
The president's order was issued on January 30 and required federal agencies to repeal two existing regulations for every new regulation proposed or issued. The order also required the cost of the new regulation to be fully offset through the repeals.
Trump had promised during his presidential run to place a moratorium on new federal regulations not compelled by Congress or public safety. Soon after his victory, he issued a video mapping out his first 100 days that included the 2-for-1 curb on government regulations.
The lawsuit was filed in the US District Court for the District of Columbia. It underscores the difficulties of governing through executive action as opponents turn to the courts to block implementation, just as they did with Trump's travel ban. Former President Barack Obama faced similar roadblocks when his administration sought to expand overtime pay and block millions of people from deportation.
The lawsuit contends that Trump's order exceeds his constitutional authority and directs federal agencies to illegally repeal regulations needed to protect the health and safety of Americans and the environment.
