What to watch in the Supreme Court's big climate case
Summary
The Supreme Court will hear a case about whether state courts can allow lawsuits against oil companies for damages caused by climate change. These lawsuits, brought by cities and states, claim oil companies misled the public about climate risks and seek money to help cover climate-related costs.Key Facts
- The case involves lawsuits against Exxon and Suncor filed by Boulder city and county in 2018.
- Many other states, like California, New York, and Massachusetts, have similar climate-related lawsuits active.
- Oil companies argue that federal law should stop these state lawsuits because climate change is a global and interstate issue.
- The Supreme Court may decide if it can even hear the case now, as Boulder’s case is still allowed in state court.
- President Trump’s administration supports oil companies, arguing federal law protects them from these claims.
- Justice Samuel Alito is not participating in this case because he recused himself.
- A decision against the oil companies could also affect state laws that make fossil fuel companies pay for climate damages.
- This case is part of a larger fight between industry and climate advocates about how to address climate change through the courts.
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