SEC's New , Climate Disclosure Rules , Facing Multiple Lawsuits.
'Newsweek' reports that both industry and
environmental groups have legally challenged the
Securities and Exchange Commission over new rules. .
The new rules require some businesses to disclose
information about climate risks, including direct
greenhouse gas emissions and risks from extreme weather.
The SEC rules, which were approved on March 6 by a 3-2 vote,
also require companies to provide investors with context
on how those companies plan on managing those risks.
Some requirements were pared back prior to the rules
being approved. Those rules include reporting on Scope 3
emissions which relate to the company's supply chain.
In response to the new rules, two fossil fuel producing
companies filed lawsuits accusing the SEC of burdening
companies and exposing them to potential litigation.
19 state attorney generals have also
filed lawsuits claiming that the new rules
exceed the SEC's legal authority.
On the other side, environmental groups the Sierra Club
Foundation and Earthjustice announced their own lawsuits
accusing the SEC of watering down rules to protect investors.
Sierra Club has millions of members
and supporters who have investments
in the market. It's really critical that
we have access to information about
climate risks that may be faced
by the kinds of entities that
we would hope to invest in, Andres Restrepo, Sierra Club Senior Attorney, via Newsweek.
'Newsweek' reports that the SEC rules were
meant to take effect in 2026, however, the
legal challenges are likely to result in delays.
The new rules come as the U.S. Supreme Court
has indicated plans to restrict the regulatory
authority of environmental enforcement agencies.