Trump Targets California's Climate Laws, Expected Billions in Losses

Former President Donald Trump has signed an executive order aimed at dismantling state and local climate policies, specifically targeting California's cap-and-trade program, which he labels as unconstitutional barriers to energy production. The order directs the U.S. Attorney General to identify state laws that conflict with federal energy policy, with the intent to halt enforcement of those deemed illegal. Trump's administration argues that such state initiatives increase energy costs and threaten national security, while legal experts warn that the order may provoke a constitutional crisis by attempting to override state authority. The cap-and-trade program, initially enacted to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, allows businesses to trade emissions credits and has been adopted by multiple states. This executive action signals a broader effort to promote fossil fuel development and diminish renewable energy initiatives, facing expected resistance from California officials committed to climate action.