Story perspectives

Montana Supreme Court Denies Youth Climate Challenge Request

1/3/2026

Summary

Story summary

The Montana Supreme Court denied the youth plaintiffs’ request in Held v. Montana to bypass lower courts and challenge environmental laws enacted by the 2025 Legislature.
The plaintiffs argue the 2025 environmental laws weaken protections against greenhouse gas emissions and worsen climate-change impacts.
The Montana Supreme Court did not find sufficient urgency to grant jurisdiction.
The plaintiffs will proceed with a district court filing, anticipating a quicker resolution than in the initial litigation.

1 of 1

Story summary

The Montana Supreme Court denied the youth plaintiffs’ request in Held v. Montana to bypass lower courts and challenge environmental laws enacted by the 2025 Legislature.
The plaintiffs argue the 2025 environmental laws weaken protections against greenhouse gas emissions and worsen climate-change impacts.
The Montana Supreme Court did not find sufficient urgency to grant jurisdiction.
The plaintiffs will proceed with a district court filing, anticipating a quicker resolution than in the initial litigation.