Diamond Alternative Energy, LLC v. EPA: The Intersection of Constitutional and Environmental Law

In this episode of our "An Energized Exchange" podcast series, presented by the Energy & Natural Resources Industry Sector Group, attorneys Zach Pilchen, Brian Bunger and Rafe Petersen discuss the U.S. Supreme Court's decision in Diamond Alternative Energy, LLC v. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and its constitutional, environmental and judicial implications. The case stems from California's unique authority under the Clean Air Act to enforce vehicle emission standards, requiring automakers to manufacture more electric vehicles and less liquid fuel powered vehicles. While these standards directly regulate car makers, the case was made by fuel companies that their business would be impacted by the decrease in demand for gasoline and diesel. The conversation also touches on the impact of the Supreme Court's decision regarding ongoing battles over California's air quality rules and other EPA regulations, suggesting more legal challenges may arise from a wider range of players on both sides of environmental issues.