Trump’s Executive Order Aims to Block State Climate Change Laws

US President Donald Trump has issued a new executive order aimed at blocking state laws designed to reduce the use of fossil fuels and address climate change.

This move is part of a broader effort by Trump’s administration to boost domestic energy production while pushing back against climate policies led by Democratic states.

The Push for Energy Dominance

The executive order directs the US Attorney General to identify and take action against state laws that target climate change, carbon emissions, environmental, social, and governance (ESG) initiatives, and energy policies. Trump argued that many states have enacted, or are in the process of enacting, policies that threaten the nation's energy independence and economic security.

Trump specifically referenced laws in states like New York and Vermont, where fossil fuel companies are fined for their contributions to climate change. He also criticized California’s cap-and-trade policy and the ongoing lawsuits to hold energy companies accountable for their role in global warming.

Response to Executive Order

The response from Democratic leaders in states such as New York and New Mexico was swift. Governors Kathy Hochul of New York and Michelle Lujan Grisham of New Mexico, who co-chair the US Climate Alliance, emphasized that states will continue to push forward with their climate agendas. They stressed that Trump’s executive order would not strip states of their authority to implement climate policies.

The US Climate Alliance is a coalition of 24 governors committed to addressing climate change and ensuring a cleaner, safer future.

Also read: Trump to Fast-Track AI Power Stations Using Emergency Energy Powers

Industry Reaction to Trump’s Order

The American Petroleum Institute (API), a prominent oil and gas trade group, supported Trump’s executive order. API Senior Vice President Ryan Meyers praised the president’s decision, arguing that states like New York and California were pursuing unconstitutional measures that penalize US energy producers. According to Meyers, such policies harm the ability of oil and gas companies to meet the energy needs of American consumers.