A Bucks County judge has dismissed the county’s lawsuit against major fossil fuel companies, including Shell and ExxonMobil, which sought damages for climate-related infrastructure costs. The lawsuit, filed in March 2024, alleged these companies misled the public about the climate impact of their products.
Judge Stephen Corr ruled that Pennsylvania lacks jurisdiction over such claims, citing that air emissions fall under federal law. During the hearing, he expressed concern over the county’s hiring practices for legal representation, noting a lack of public discussion.
Chevron’s attorney welcomed the decision, stating it aligns with similar rulings in other jurisdictions. Initially supportive, one Republican commissioner later withdrew support for the lawsuit. The county has had multiple serious flooding incidents in recent years, intensifying its concerns over climate effects.
A county spokesperson declined to comment on the ruling.
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