AG Nessel Reacts to SCOTUS Ruling in West Virginia v EPA

LANSING ? Today, a ruling from the Supreme Court of the United States cut back the statutory authority of federal agencies, including the United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), to protect public health, safety and the environment from severe threats, including the clear and present danger of climate change. ?

Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel issued the following statement in response:?

"When I took office, I immediately removed Michigan from this lawsuit and three others because combating harmful pollution with science-backed governance must be a priority as elected officials. This ruling dangerously undermines the EPA's essential efforts to curb climate change and I am dismayed to see an outcome that will no doubt wash away reasonable regulations meant to protect the environment. Turning a blind eye will not erase the present national and global emergency we are experiencing, and I stand with the other states that have supported the EPA - and will continue to do so - in our continued fight to protect our residents and communities."

Since Nessel took office in 2019, actions to properly address climate change and environmental threats became a priority. Most recently, Nessel reached a settlement with Consumers Energy where Consumers pledged to end its use of coal by 2025. The settlement was approved by the Michigan Public Service Commission last week.?

In April, Gov. Gretchen Whitmer unveiled the MI Healthy Climate Plan to create good-paying jobs, protect air and water.?

Michigan is a current leader in clean energy jobs as a proportion of the state?s total workforce. Nessel, through partnership with other state agencies, is committed to keeping it that way.?

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