Exxon and Other Oil Giants Ordered to Face Climate Change Lawsuit by Puerto Rican Municipalities

In a significant development for climate accountability, U.S. Magistrate Judge Héctor Ramos-Vega has ruled that ExxonMobil, Chevron, Shell, and six other major oil companies must face portions of a lawsuit filed by Puerto Rican municipalities. The lawsuit alleges that these companies misled the public about climate change and conspired to suppress clean energy alternatives. 

Key Points:

• Lawsuit Background: In 2022, 37 municipalities in Puerto Rico initiated legal action against the oil companies, claiming that their deceptive practices contributed to the intensification of Hurricanes Irma and Maria in 2017, causing widespread destruction across the islands. 

• Judge's Ruling: Judge Ramos-Vega determined that the municipalities provided sufficient information to pursue antitrust and racketeering claims under the Racketeer Influenced and Corrupt Organizations Act (RICO). However, he recommended dismissing other claims, including consumer deception and fraud. 

• Legal Implications: This decision is viewed as a pivotal moment in climate litigation, potentially holding fossil fuel companies accountable for their role in climate change. The case is expected to proceed to trial, allowing for discovery into the industry's alleged deceptive practices. 

• Industry Response: The oil companies have denied any wrongdoing and sought to dismiss the lawsuit. They argue that the complaint is based on the notion that they may be held liable for all carbon emissions, everywhere and at any time. 

This ruling underscores the growing trend of legal actions against fossil fuel companies, reflecting increasing public and governmental scrutiny of their environmental impact and corporate practices.

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