The U.S. Supreme Court rejected a lawsuit by Republican attorneys general regarding climate change suits against the oil and gas industry. The lawsuit aimed to stop Democratic states from suing fossil fuel companies over climate change deception. Justice Clarence Thomas and Justice Samuel Alito expressed support for the lawsuit, but the majority rejected it.
Key Points
U.S. Supreme Court rejected lawsuit by Republican attorneys general on climate change suits.
Justice Clarence Thomas and Justice Samuel Alito supported the lawsuit, but the majority did not.
Lawsuits by Democratic states against fossil fuel companies over climate change will continue.
Pros
Democratic states can continue to hold fossil fuel companies accountable for climate change deception.
Decision upholds states' rights to sue over environmental issues.
Cons
Republican attorneys general's efforts to stop the lawsuits were unsuccessful.
Potential for higher energy costs if the lawsuits proceed.