Great Lakes Wire

Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel has filed a motion to dismiss a lawsuit initiated by the United States Department of Justice (DOJ). The federal lawsuit, submitted on April 30, 2025, aims to prevent Michigan from pursuing legal action against the fossil fuel industry concerning climate impacts.

Nessel described the DOJ's lawsuit as an "attempt to intimidate" her office. She stated, "Any lawsuit we file against the fossil fuel industry is still in the development stage and entirely unknown to the administration, as their own filing admits, making this move not just premature but deficient." She affirmed her commitment to seeking justice for Michigan residents despite what she perceives as efforts to deter such actions.

The motion and accompanying brief were filed in the United States District Court for the Western District of Michigan. They argue that the DOJ's complaint lacks jurisdiction because it is speculative and premature. Nessel contends that since no lawsuit has been officially filed by Michigan, the DOJ's case relies on conjecture about potential future litigation.