The question at issue is whether Gov. Wolf can enter RGGI through executive order - something that RGGI opponents staunchly deny. They argue that Gov. Wolf’s order undermines the legislature’s exclusive authority to impose taxes and enter interstate agreements. As an energy powerhouse, Pennsylvania’s entrance would significantly strengthen RGGI and become a  “political litmus test” for carbon pricing programs. RGGI would arguably be the most significant step Pennsylvania has ever taken to address climate change, and the battle over it has brought political tensions around environmental issues to the forefront.  

In 1971, the Pennsylvania General Assembly (the legislature of the U.S. commonwealth of Pennsylvania) altered the state constitution to include an Environmental Rights Amendment (ERA). This marked the first instance of a state granting its citizens an affirmative right to a healthy environment.