US Supreme Court wrestles with oil companies' bid to scuttle climate lawsuit
XOM•The US Supreme Court heard Exxon and Suncor’s bid to block Boulder, Colorado’s climate damages lawsuit. A ruling, expected by the end of June, could affect nearly 60 similar suits brought by state and local governments.
1. Arguments over state authority
Exxon and Suncor appealed after the Colorado Supreme Court allowed Boulder’s lawsuit to proceed. The city and county governments accuse the companies of contributing to climate change and misleading the public about fossil fuel risks, and seek damages for costs including infrastructure repairs, environmental damage, emergency management and public health harms.
2. Broader impact at stake
The companies argue that federal law governs interstate pollution claims and that state law cannot regulate global conduct. The Trump administration also backed the companies, arguing that federal authority under the Clean Air Act precludes Boulder’s claims. Nearly 60 state and local governments have filed similar suits seeking billions of dollars; the Supreme Court’s decision is expected by the end of June.
