US Supreme Court to kick off term with bid by Big Oil to toss climate suits
XOM•The Supreme Court begins its new term with arguments on ExxonMobil and Suncor Energy’s bid to scuttle Boulder, Colorado’s climate damages lawsuit. A decision is expected by the end of June.
1. Climate lawsuit appeal
ExxonMobil and Suncor appealed after the Colorado Supreme Court allowed Boulder’s lawsuit to proceed. Boulder’s city and county governments accuse the companies of contributing to climate change and misleading the public about fossil fuel risks, and seek damages for past and future costs including infrastructure repairs, environmental damage, emergency management and public health harms.
2. Potential broader impact
Exxon and Suncor told the justices that nearly 60 state and local governments have filed similar suits seeking billions of dollars from fossil fuel companies. The companies argue that federal law, including the Clean Air Act, precludes Boulder’s claims; the Trump administration has backed them. Justice Samuel Alito has recused himself, and the court’s decision is expected by the end of June.
