Summary
Business groups have asked the U.S. Supreme Court to stop California from enforcing two laws that require large companies to report their greenhouse gas emissions and climate-related financial risks. The legal challenge argues that these laws force companies to speak on climate issues, which they claim violates their First Amendment rights.
Key Facts
- California passed two laws in 2023: Senate Bill 253 and Senate Bill 261.
- SB 253 requires companies with over $1 billion in revenue in California to disclose their greenhouse gas emissions.
- SB 261 requires similar companies to report on climate-related financial risks and publish this information online starting in 2026.
- Business groups, including the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, argue these laws force them to discuss climate change, violating free speech protections.
- The case has reached the U.S. Supreme Court as an emergency appeal.
- The outcome could affect how much climate information companies are required to share with the public.
- Exxon Mobil has filed its own lawsuit, claiming these laws compel them to promote ideas they disagree with.
