Quigley Statement On Supreme Court Decision To Limit The EPA’s Authority To Regulate Emissions

Today, U.S Representative Mike Quigley, Vice-Chair of the Sustainable Energy and Environmental Coalition, released the below statement on the Supreme Court's decision to curb the EPA's authority to set climate standards for power plants.

"Today's decision is nothing short of disastrous. In recent days we have seen just how little this court cares for the health and safety of the American people and this ruling aligns with that utter disregard. The Supreme Court has undermined both the legislative branch as well as the authority of governmental agencies. This decision will set us back hundreds of years and allow companies to continue to abuse the environment for their own monetary gain.

"Congress recognizes the need for issue-area experts and scientists when responding to issues as monumental as climate change—that is the purpose of agencies like the EPA. Our country is continuously evolving, but thus far the court has demonstrated their refusal to adapt to meet our current moment.

"President Biden's administration understands the importance and urgency of the climate crisis, and promised to set our country on a necessary path to curb emissions by 2035. This goal is the minimum that we needed to provide our planet more time—to give our children's children a chance at a future. As a result of today's decision, that plan has been severely disrupted.

"Now more than ever, we must pass legislation that gives the EPA the explicit authority to decide the best course of action for addressing climate change."