Here are the big cases lined up for new SCOTUS term

The Supreme Court is starting its new term on Monday with a closely watched climate case that could affect lawsuits against major oil companies across the country.

The justices will hear arguments over a lawsuit brought by Boulder, Colorado, against ExxonMobil and Suncor Energy. The city wants the oil companies to help pay for climate-related costs, including infrastructure repairs, environmental damage, emergency response, and public health impacts.

The companies argue that federal law prevents Boulder from pursuing the case under state law. 

The stakes extend far beyond Colorado. Nearly 60 state and local governments have filed similar lawsuits seeking billions of dollars from fossil fuel companies. A ruling favoring Exxon and Suncor could weaken or derail many of those cases.

Trump cases could return
Last term, the justices handled major disputes over President Donald Trump’s tariffs, birthright citizenship and his power to remove federal officials. Several Trump-related cases could come before the Court this term, too.

The court could consider Trump’s defamation battle with E. Jean Carroll, his cancellation of federal research grants, and records involving the Department of Government Efficiency. It will also hear challenges to his policies on transgender military service and immigration.

Guns in focus
Beyond Trump, the court will hear challenges to bans on AR-15-style rifles in Connecticut and Illinois. The ruling could shape the future scope of Second Amendment protections.

Religion vs LGBTQ rights
Another major case asks whether religious preschools receiving public funding can refuse enrollment to children of same-sex couples.

The decision could further define the balance between religious freedom and anti-discrimination protections.