California climate disclosure laws: Ninth Circuit hears oral argument; no ruling yet - White & Case LLP
The Ninth Circuit heard oral arguments on the constitutionality of California's climate disclosure laws (SB 253 and SB 261) but has not yet issued a ruling. The laws remain in effect pending the decision, meaning affected businesses must continue compliance preparations.
Aforeworn detected this change in the ESG & Climate Disclosure space on July 6, 2026 and published this briefing so affected operators are forewarned rather than caught off guard. It is rated High urgency. Public companies, large private filers, sustainability consultants, EU-market exporters should confirm how it applies to their specific situation before acting. There is a time constraint attached: SB 253: First reports due 2026 for 2025 data. SB 261: First reports due 2026 for 2025 data.. Acting after that point can mean penalties, a lapsed licence, or lost eligibility — exactly the kind of surprise Aforeworn exists to prevent. Aforeworn monitors ESG & Climate Disclosure continuously and turns every detected change into a plain-English briefing like this one, so you always know first. Forewarned is forearmed.
What changed
No ruling yet; oral arguments completed. The laws remain in effect, and compliance deadlines are unchanged.
Who it affects
Public companies, large private filers, sustainability consultants, EU-market exporters
What you must do
Continue preparing for compliance with SB 253 (scope 1-3 emissions reporting) and SB 261 (climate-related financial risk reporting). Monitor for the Ninth Circuit decision.
Deadline
SB 253: First reports due 2026 for 2025 data. SB 261: First reports due 2026 for 2025 data.
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- California Sets August 2026 Deadline for First Corporate Climate Reports - ESG Today
- California Climate Disclosure Rules, ESG Compliance and Scope 3 Reporting Risks [Podcast] - The National Law Review