DOJ Sues Hawaii, Michigan Over Fossil Fuel Lawsuits
The Department of Justice (DOJ) filed lawsuits against Hawaii, Michigan, New York, and Vermont, alleging their climate-related actions contradict federal authority and the Trump administration’s energy agenda. The lawsuits challenge Hawaii and Michigan’s planned litigation against fossil fuel companies and New York and Vermont’s “superfund” laws requiring fossil fuel companies to contribute to state-based climate funds. The DOJ argues these state actions improperly regulate out-of-state emissions and interfere with the Clean Air Act. Legal experts express concern over this unprecedented move, viewing it as an aggressive tactic to support the fossil fuel industry and potentially intimidate states from pursuing climate action.
John Q. Hosedrinker