Washington State Sues Navy

SEATTLE (AP) – Washington state is suing the Navy over its expansion of jet operations on Whidbey Island.

Attorney General Bob Ferguson announced the federal lawsuit Tuesday, saying the Navy failed to adequately examine the effects that having nearly 50,000 flights per year would have on people or wildlife.

The Navy in March authorized the expansion of its Growler program by up to three dozen jets, adding to the 82 already based on Whidbey Island. The jets conduct electronic warfare to jam enemy communications and launch systems.

The Navy’s public affairs office said it does not comment on litigation.

Ferguson said that while the Navy has an important job and its crews must be able to train, it must also follow its obligations to avoid unnecessary harm to human health and the environment.