This story was originally published by the Guardian and is reproduced here as part of the Climate Desk collaboration.

The US Supreme Court has decided to hear arguments in a climate accountability lawsuit, marking the first time the high court has weighed in on such a case. The decision could potentially hinder the wave of climate litigation the US has seen in recent years. “It’s not a good sign,” said Pat Parenteau, a professor of environmental law at Vermont Law and Graduate School.

The lawsuit in question was filed by the city of Boulder, Colorado, against two major oil companies: Suncor Energy USA and ExxonMobil Corporation. After Colorado’s supreme court refused to dismiss the lawsuit, the defendants filed a petition with the US Supreme Court asking them to shut down the case, arguing that it is pre-empted by federal laws.

If the Supreme Court rules against the defendants, that could be boon for climate accountability cases, allowing not only the City of Boulder but also those who have launched similar cases to breathe a sigh........

© Mother Jones