The U.S. Supreme Court's upcoming decision on the Chevron doctrine could significantly affect environmental regulations, including those on pollution and climate change.
Jody Freeman writes for Yale Environment 360.
In short:
- The Chevron doctrine allows federal agencies to interpret ambiguous statutes reasonably.
- Overturning Chevron may limit agencies' flexibility to adapt regulations to new scientific findings.
- The decision could shift more policy-making power to the judiciary, leading to increased litigation and regulatory instability.
Key quote:
"Overturning or enfeebling Chevron would have negative consequences."
— Jody Freeman, Harvard Law School
Why this matters:
Removing the Chevron doctrine could reduce agencies' ability to address evolving environmental challenges effectively. This shift might undermine regulatory stability, impacting public health and environmental protection.
