What’s the story?

Oklahoma Attorney General Gentner Drummond (R) filed an appeal with the state Supreme Court seeking to overturn a lower court’s ruling against the state’s anti-ESG law. The statute prohibits state contracts and investments with asset managers who—in the state treasurer’s view—boycott the fossil fuel industry.

Why does it matter?

Oklahoma’s decision on the anti-ESG law could set an example that other states may consider in enforcing their own laws. 

What’s the background?

Drummond has become involved in several cases related to ESG and Oklahoma’s energy industry. In addition to supporting Oklahoma’s anti-ESG law—the Energy Discrimination Act of 2022—in state courts, Drummond last month joined a multi-state challenge of an Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) rule limiting heavy-duty truck emissions. He also challenged the EPA’s authority to reject the state’s ozone emissions plan in 2023.

Additional reading

Ballotpedia tracks support for and opposition to the environmental, social, and corporate governance (ESG) investing movement. To learn more about arguments for, against, and about ESG, click here. For more information on reform proposals related to ESG policy, click here.