Supreme Court to hear high-stakes climate case Monday

The Supreme Court opens a new term later this morning, and first up is a case that could

have a big impact on climate lawsuits across the country. Boulder, Colorado is suing ExxonMobil and Suncor Energy, accusing the oil companies of misleading

the public about fossil fuels and contributing to climate-related costs the community is

now facing. The companies want the case thrown out. But what the justices are actually deciding here is more narrow than the lawsuit itself

When this case is taken up by the Supreme Court, it's not going to be about whether the oil industry in fact was deceptive in its marketing practices or whether fossil fuels in fact have caused climate change or imposed certain costs upon the local government entities

This case is really about is this a federal law question or a state law question

Exxon and Suncor argue climate change crosses state and national borders, so federal law should control

The Trump administration is backing them. Boulder says its claims are about the company's conduct and allegedly deceptive marketing

and state courts should be allowed to hear them. And the ruling could reach well beyond Colorado

Nearly 60 states and local governments have filed similar lawsuits against fossil fuel companies

A win for Exxon and Suncor could lead to many of those cases being dismissed

Only eight justices will hear today's arguments. Justice Samuel Alito has recused himself and the court has not said why

A decision is expected by the end of June