Supreme Court to Hear Boulder's Climate Lawsuit Against Big Oil

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The U.S. Supreme Court has agreed to hear a case brought by the city and county of Boulder, Colorado, against major oil companies Suncor Energy and Exxon. Boulder alleges the companies misled the public about climate change risks, knowingly contributed to climate change, and should pay for some of the governments' costs to address its impacts. The oil companies argue the stakes in the case 'could not be higher' as they appeal a Colorado Supreme Court ruling that allowed the lawsuit to proceed under state law.

Why it matters

This case could set an important precedent on whether local governments can hold fossil fuel companies legally responsible for the costs of climate change impacts. A ruling in favor of Boulder could open the door for more such lawsuits against the oil and gas industry, while a win for the companies could make it harder for municipalities to seek climate-related damages.

The details

Boulder and Suncor Energy/Exxon are engaged in a high-stakes legal battle over whether the city and county can use state law to hold the oil companies liable for climate change impacts. Boulder alleges the companies misled the public about the risks of climate change and should pay for some of the local government's costs to address its effects. The oil companies are appealing a Colorado Supreme Court ruling that allowed the lawsuit to proceed, arguing the stakes 'could not be higher' as they seek to have the U.S. Supreme Court overturn the state court's decision.

• On February 23, 2026, the U.S. Supreme Court agreed to hear the case.

What’s next

The U.S. Supreme Court will hear oral arguments in the case and issue a ruling at a later date.