The Supreme Court has agreed to hear arguments from ExxonMobil and Suncor Energy seeking to block climate change lawsuits filed by local governments. The justices will review whether these cases belong in state or federal courts, a decision that could reshape the legal landscape for environmental litigation against major energy companies.

Local governments across the country have filed lawsuits seeking billions of dollars in damages from oil and gas companies. They argue that fossil fuel producers should pay for rebuilding after wildfires, rising sea levels, and severe storms worsened by climate change. The lawsuits claim companies deceived the public about fossil fuels' contribution to global warming.

This case represents a significant legal battle between local governments and the energy industry. The companies contend that climate change is a national issue requiring federal jurisdiction, while local governments argue state courts are appropriate for addressing in-state damages. The Trump administration has supported the companies' position, warning that allowing state lawsuits could open the door to litigation from "every locality in the country."