PSR Statement on the Supreme Court Ruling on West Virginia v. EPA June 30, 2022

Today the Supreme Court drastically weakened the Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) ability to regulate climate crisis-causing greenhouse gas emissions. In a 6-3 ruling, the majority sided with fossil fuel interests over public health by undermining the EPA’s authority to keep our air clean and our climate safe.

Jeff Carter, executive director of Physicians for Social Responsibility, issued the following statement:

“This egregious ruling by the Supreme Court will endanger the health and wellbeing of people here in the United States and around the world. The majority has effectively prioritized the interests of the fossil fuel industry over human beings, even as people are already suffering the consequences of climate change and harmful pollution.

“Let’s also be clear on who suffers the most as a result of rulings like the one today: poor and working people – particularly communities of color.”

“But the Supreme Court is not the final word on climate action. Although this ruling will present significant obstacles to EPA rulemaking, EPA still retains the ability to take meaningful action now. EPA Administrator Michael Regan and the Biden administration must act expeditiously to issue the strongest rules possible that mitigate climate change and protect public health.

“In addition, we call on Congress to take bold action to tackle climate change. Currently, a package of valuable climate investments, prioritizing public health, is stalled in the Senate. Congress must pass this package now. These investments will help make clean, safe, and healthy renewable energy available to power our society, and protect the public from the health hazards associated with climate change and fossil fuels. It is the necessary next step to achieving humanity’s climate goals.”