Illinois Attorney General Kwame Raoul announced on Mar. 31 that he is co-leading a coalition of 21 states and local governments in filing a lawsuit challenging the Trump administration’s repeal of the 2024 Mercury and Air Toxics Standards (MATS) Rule. The lawsuit opposes the reversion to older standards, which coalition members say will increase dangerous emissions from coal- and oil-fired power plants.
The issue is significant because the MATS Rule sets nationwide limits on toxic air pollutants, including mercury, arsenic, lead, and acid gases. These substances are known to cause serious health risks, especially for children and pregnant women. “The Trump administration has made a significant step backwards, allowing more toxic air pollution that will harm our communities,” Raoul said. “Mercury and other types of pollution from fossil fuel power plants cause serious negative health effects, especially for children. I’m committed to fighting back against this administration’s attacks on crucial protections for our health and the environment.”
Coalition members argue that rolling back updated standards could result in increased exposure to hazardous air pollutants both near power plants and across state lines due to airborne travel of these toxins. Mercury is described as a potent neurotoxin with potential lifelong impacts such as developmental delays or neurological disorders in children exposed during pregnancy.
Mercury emissions also contribute to contamination in U.S. waterways like Lake Michigan in Illinois, affecting fishing economies as well as tribal nations who rely on fishing for subsistence.
Raoul and his colleagues contend that the Environmental Protection Agency did not provide sufficient justification for repealing the updated rule or adequately consider technological advances available for pollution control.
Attorney General Raoul co-led this legal challenge with Minnesota Attorney General Keith Ellison; other participants include attorneys general from several states along with major cities such as Chicago and New York City.
According to the official website, the Illinois Attorney General advocates for vulnerable groups including workers, immigrants, seniors; handles thousands of consumer complaints annually; aims to protect consumers while promoting safer communities; extends advocacy efforts statewide; partners with law enforcement agencies; supports crime victims; promotes open government; and offers services such as complaint filing related to consumer fraud or civil rights.
