OKLAHOMA CITY (May 28, 2024) – Attorney General Gentner Drummond is requesting the U.S. Supreme Court to declare unconstitutional the efforts of California, Connecticut, Minnesota, New Jersey, and Rhode Island to influence American energy policy. These five states have initiated litigation against key national energy companies, demanding billions in damages. As these cases progress in state courts, they threaten to impose significant penalties and coercive measures affecting energy and fuel consumption and production nationwide.
Drummond is part of a 19-state coalition highlighting constitutional concerns with California's actions and urging the Supreme Court to consider a multi-state lawsuit.
"This wasteful litigation by five states is a brazen attempt to hobble energy policies that positively impact our country," Drummond said. "The energy industry is key to a thriving Oklahoma and nation. No single state – or even five – should be allowed to dictate what is right for another state. I will always defend what is right for Oklahomans."
The Supreme Court will decide whether to hear the lawsuit against California and the other four proposed defendants. The coalition’s motion, complaint, and brief argue that traditional energy sources like oil and natural gas are essential for American prosperity. The states also contend that this issue is crucial because federalism ensures no state has more power than another.
The Alabama-led motion was joined by attorneys general from Alaska, Florida, Georgia, Idaho, Iowa, Kansas, Mississippi, Missouri, Montana, Nebraska, New Hampshire, North Dakota, South Carolina, South Dakota, Utah, West Virginia and Wyoming.
Read the filing at https://www.oag.ok.gov/sites/g/files/gmc766/f/documents/2024/2024.05.22_...