High-speed rail critics sue state over diversion of funds

A San Rafael-based group that opposes the $68 billion high-speed rail project is suing the state over plans to devote air pollution revenue for its construction.

The Transportation Solutions Defense and Education Fund filed the lawsuit Monday in Fresno County Superior Court.

It alleges the California Air Resources Board overlooked scientific evidence that the rail project will generate more greenhouse gas emissions than it will reduce for at least a decade.

The agency is responsible for enacting California’s landmark global warming law, AB32.

The state Legislature last week approved Gov. Jerry Brown’s plan to give $250 million in cap-and-trade revenue this year and a quarter of future revenue to the project.

The California High-Speed Rail Authority has called its environmental review one of the most comprehensive ever done in California.