Supreme Court begins new term with high-profile look at clean air and federal authority

The Supreme Court launched its new term Monday with a blockbuster oral argument over whether federal or state laws and courts should handle civil lawsuits against energy companies for alleged climate change harms.Eight justices debated for nearly two hours on a key gateway over environmental liability — who decides and where.It was unclear after the public session how the court might rule.Absent was Justice Samuel Alito, who recused last week after calls to step aside because he owns stock in oil companies, but not the two at the center of Monday's appeal.Local and state governments seek civil damages totaling billions of dollars, arguing it is necessary to help pay for rebuilding after wildfires, rising sea levels, and severe storms worsened by fossil fuel pollution.SUPREME COURT CAN RESTORE SANITY AND STOP THE LEFT’S RADICAL CLIMATE AGENDAThe Supreme Court begins a consequential new term as the justices confront major constitutional disputes and continued scrutiny of the institution.

Justice Samuel Alito recused himself amid scrutiny over his oil company stock holdings.(Jay Janner/The Austin American-Statesman via Getty Images)Colorado's highest court let the case brought by Boulder County proceed.SUPREME COURT SIDES WITH CHEVRON, OIL COMPANIES IN LOUISIANA ENVIRONMENTAL LAWSUITSThe companies — backed by the Trump administration — counter emissions are a national issue that should be heard in federal court, where similar suits have been tossed out.Environmental Protection Agency Headquarters Building in Washington D.C.

(Getty)The justices will also decide whether they have jurisdiction to hear this dispute, or whether it belongs in state courts.SUPREME COURT CLIMATE SHOWDOWN JOLTED BY ALITO'S LAST-MINUTE DECISIONChief Justice John Roberts could be the deciding vote.He asked tough questions of both sides and his vote could produce a 4-4 tie with Alito not participating.That would mean the specific lawsuit moves ahead in state courts.

He said the court in...