Supreme Court, in 7-1 Decision, Allows EPA's Plan to Cut Power Plant Emissions by 90% by 2032

Oct 16, 2024, 08:14 PM

The U.S. Supreme Court on Wednesday allowed the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to enforce its stringent new emissions limits on coal- and gas-fired power plants, permitting the Biden administration to proceed with its efforts to tackle climate change while legal challenges play out. In a 7-1 decision, the Court denied emergency applications from more than 20 Republican-led states, utilities, and industry groups seeking to block the EPA's rule, which aims to reduce carbon pollution from power plants by 90% by 2032. Justice Clarence Thomas dissented, and Justice Samuel Alito did not participate in the decision. Justices Brett Kavanaugh and Neil Gorsuch wrote separately, indicating that the challengers' arguments may have merit if the case returns to the Court. The decision is considered a significant boost for the Biden administration's climate agenda.