January 12, 2026: Youth Plaintiffs File Opening Brief

The youth plaintiffs filed their opening brief to the Ninth Circuit, asking them to overturn Judge Christensen's ruling that blocks the case from proceeding on the merits.  

The plaintiffs claim that the Executive Orders exceed the President’s legal authority and violate the Constitution by depriving children of their fundamental rights, including their right to life. Plaintiffs argue that the Montana federal court was wrong to dismiss their case and that courts have the power to block unlawful executive actions.  

They ask the Ninth Circuit to reverse the district court and allow the case to proceed to the merits of whether President Trump is violating the youths’ rights and overstepping his constitutional and statutory authority by directing executive agencies to unleash fossil fuels while blocking wind, solar, EVs, and climate programs mandated by Congress.