A federal appeals court has blocked the Trump administration’s attempt to rescind billions of dollars in climate funds allocated under the Biden administration’s Inflation Reduction Act (IRA). The D.C. Circuit Court of Appeals reinstated a preliminary injunction that prevents the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) from reclaiming money intended for ‘green bank’ projects aimed at tackling climate change and reducing pollution. The decision, made by the full bench of the circuit court, overturns a previous ruling by a smaller panel that had canceled the injunction.
EPA Administrator Lee Zeldin had initially sought to recover $20 billion that the Biden administration distributed to green banks. These funds were meant for projects that mitigate climate change. The Trump EPA argued for terminating the program and clawing back the funds. Following the court’s decision, the EPA stated it is reviewing the judgment and considering its next steps. There has been no update regarding the status of the funds since the injunction was last nullified.
A spokesperson from the EPA did not provide details when asked for a status update on the funds.
The Hill’s Energy & Environment newsletter, with insights from Rachel Frazin, offers updates on policies impacting various sectors, including oil, gas, and new supply chains.
Essential Reads
Key policy impacts on the energy and environment sectors:
- Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent anticipated an imminent deal regarding the Strait of Hormuz, significantly affecting global trade and energy markets.
- The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) could face critical staffing shortages if a major disaster occurs, according to a nonpartisan congressional watchdog.
- Texas Governor Greg Abbott has ordered audits of all data centers in the state’s queue before new ones connect to the power grid.
- Cyberattacks have been reported to the FBI by water and wastewater utilities in at least seven states.
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- A coalition discusses next steps after the Michigan Supreme Court demands a review of the Line 5 tunnel.
Current Headlines at The Hill
- Democratic socialist and former Wisconsin state representative Francesca Hong defended a social media post advocating to ‘cancel Thanksgiving,’ aligning with her progressive agenda amid her gubernatorial campaign.
- Reports indicate that President Trump ordered contractors to redo construction work at the White House helipad, dissatisfied with its appearance.
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