WASHINGTON, D.C.—U.S. Chamber Institute for Legal Reform President Lisa A. Rickard issued the following statement on the lawsuit filed by California Attorney General Bill Lockyer against automobile manufacturers for allegedly creating the “public nuisance” of global warming:
“The election year decision to file a lawsuit against automobile manufacturers for causing global warming by a politician seeking office is a classic case of over-reaching by a state attorney general. Automobile manufacturers have complied with every aspect of state and federal law in bringing a legal product to market. The vehicles Attorney General Lockyer is now labeling a ‘public nuisance’ have been fully inspected and licensed to operate by the state. At a time when the industry is looking for ways to cut emissions and promote alternative fuels, to single out the automobile companies for legal action in this way is the epitome of a frivolous lawsuit.”
The mission of the Institute for Legal Reform is to make America’s legal system simpler, fairer, and faster for everyone. The U.S. Chamber is the world’s largest business federation representing more than 3 million businesses and organizations of every size, sector, and region.