Alaska seeks to block fuel standard enforcement

JUNEAU, Alaska -- The state of Alaska is asking a federal judge to block enforcement of rules intended to limit pollution from large ships.

The request for a preliminary injunction was filed Friday.

Alaska is suing the federal government over the new fuel standard, arguing it will result in higher freight rates and pricier cruises that will hurt the state's economy.

The rules took effect Aug. 1 and require cargo carriers and cruise ships to use a low-sulfur fuel within 200 miles of a significant portion of U.S. and Canadian shores.

The federal government hasn't filed its response yet.

Meanwhile, the Center for Biological Diversity, Environmental Defense Fund, Friends of the Earth and Natural Resources Defense Council have asked to intervene, in support of the federal government.