Cruz, GOP Senators Introduce Bill to Block Climate Lawsuits Against Energy Producers

WASHINGTON — U.S. Sens. Ted Cruz, R-Texas, Tom Cotton, R-Ark., Ted Budd, R-N.C., and Mike Lee, R-Utah, have introduced legislation to prohibit climate-related lawsuits against American energy producers in state or federal court. 

The Stop Climate Shakedowns Act would bar what sponsors call dubious climate lawsuits or actions attempting to enforce an “energy penalty law.” It would also void any such energy penalty laws and preempt states from regulating interstate and global emissions.

“Radical environmental groups have waged a coordinated campaign to weaponize our judicial system against American energy producers, including many in Texas,” Cruz said. “They’re using meritless lawsuits to bankrupt our energy industry, kill good-paying jobs, and drive up the cost of electricity and gasoline for hardworking families. I am proud to lead this bill to stop that abuse to protect American jobs, lower energy costs, and defend American energy dominance.”

Cotton said the bill would end delays to energy projects caused by environmental groups and lower costs for Arkansans. Budd said American energy producers are under constant attack from climate activists using the courts, and that the legislation would protect access to reliable, affordable energy. Lee said it would stop “the climate shakedown” and lawfare against energy workers. 

Companion legislation was introduced in the House by Rep. Harriet Hageman, R-Wyo.

“Energy security is national security, and we will not self-sabotage our critical industries with a cascade of costly lawsuits and extreme penalties that jeopardize American drilling,” Hageman said. “America’s energy producers should be protected from the dangerous legal precedent that would be set by the retroactive punishment of lawful activity.”

The sponsors say the legislation protects America’s energy independence and prevents increased energy costs. Last June, Cruz led a Senate Judiciary subcommittee hearing on lawfare against American energy dominance.

Read the bill text HERE.