Judge Rules Against Youngkin's RGGI Withdrawal Attempt

A Virginia judge has ruled that Governor Glenn Youngkin's attempt to withdraw the state from the Regional Greenhouse Gas Initiative (RGGI) was unlawful, as only the state legislature has the authority to make such a decision. The RGGI is a cooperative effort among 12 states aimed at reducing carbon emissions by requiring power plants to purchase emissions allowances. Youngkin, opposing the initiative on grounds that it increases utility costs for Virginians, had directed the state's Air Pollution Control Board to exit the program. The court's decision labeled this withdrawal as 'unlawful and void,' affirming the necessity of legislative approval for such actions. Youngkin's administration has expressed intentions to appeal the ruling, citing the initiative as a hidden tax on energy bills. Environmental groups and Democratic lawmakers have welcomed the ruling, emphasizing the initiative's role in reducing greenhouse gases and addressing climate change.