Last summer, President Obama attempted to circumvent Congress by implementing increased regulation of carbon emissions from power plants through the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). This was after his climate change legislation failed twice in Congress. However, it is the responsibility of Congress – not the administration – to set policy. The successful Supreme Court appeal centered on that point.

These proceedings are especially important for Indiana, which is the number one per capita manufacturing state in the nation. Over 80% of Indiana’s electric power comes from coal, compared to only 45% for the country. Despite diversification efforts, coal remains Indiana’s primary energy source.

Skipp Kropp, attorney at Steptoe & Johnson PLLC and a member of the Indiana Chamber’s Energy Committee, summarizes the legal battle and what it means. Further analysis available from the Competitive Enterprise Institute.