Supreme Court hears climate liability dispute over federal and state authority

The U.S. Supreme Court opened its new term on Monday with arguments in a closely watched case about whether climaterelated damage lawsuits against energy companies should be heard in federal or state court. The dispute centers on claims brought by Boulder County and other local governments seeking billions of dollars in damages tied to wildfire, flooding, sealevel rise, and other harms they link to fossil fuel emissions. The companies argue that climate pollution is a national issue governed by federal law, while state and local plaintiffs say they should be able to pursue damages in state court. During nearly two hours of questioning, several justices raised concerns about the broader implications of the case, including how similar lawsuits might proceed across multiple jurisdictions. Justice Samuel Alito did not participate after recusing himself because of stock holdings in oil companies. A ruling is expected by next spring.