As we continue into 2025, state attorneys general (AGs) will play a pivotal role in shaping environmental policy and enforcement. With anticipated resistance to environmental regulation rollbacks and a continued focus on climate change litigation, understanding these trends is crucial to manage risk and ensure compliance.

In the latest episode of MoForecast, Morrison Foerster partners Carrie H. Cohen, global co-chair of the Investigations + White Collar Defense Group and State + Local Government Enforcement team, and Bill Tarantino, leader of MoFo’s global Environmental practice, discuss predicted trends in state AG environmental enforcement for 2025. They explore the differing priorities between Democratic and Republican AGs, with Democratic AGs likely pursuing aggressive climate policies, while Republican AGs focus on challenging regulatory overreach and emphasizing fiduciary duties in ESG practices. Despite these differences, bipartisan efforts are expected to address critical public health issues such as clean drinking water, with a particular focus on lead and PFAS chemicals. These trends also highlight the importance of staying informed and prepared for the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead.