Court Blocks Rescission of Climate Funds

A federal appeals court has halted the Trump administration’s attempt to retrieve billions in climate funds provided under the Biden administration’s Inflation Reduction Act. The D.C. Circuit Court of Appeals reinstated a preliminary injunction that stops the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) from reclaiming funds for climate projects.

Earlier, a smaller panel of judges had lifted the injunction, but the full bench reinstated it. EPA Administrator Lee Zeldin had aimed to recover $20 billion allocated for green projects intended to fight climate change and reduce pollution. The Trump-era EPA had argued for the termination of the funding program and sought the return of the funds.

Following the court’s decision, an EPA spokesperson stated that the agency is reviewing the decision and contemplating further actions. However, the spokesperson did not provide any updates on the funds, as requested by The Hill.

In related news, Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent indicated potential progress on a deal concerning the Strait of Hormuz. Meanwhile, FEMA might face staffing challenges if a disaster occurs, as noted by a congressional watchdog. Texas Governor Greg Abbott has mandated an audit of new data centers before they join the state grid. Additionally, several utility companies have reported cyberattacks to the FBI.

Other notable news includes South Korea declaring a heatwave a national disaster, and discussions about Michigan’s Line 5 tunnel. Prominent stories at The Hill include Francesca Hong’s stance on Thanksgiving and President Trump’s dissatisfaction with White House helipad construction.