A new Supreme Court term begins with cases on climate change, immigration and gun rights

The U.S. Supreme Court begins a new term on Monday with several high-profile cases involving climate change, religious rights, immigration, and gun laws.

In a climate change case originating in Boulder, Colorado, the justices will hear an appeal from energy companies Suncor and ExxonMobil. These companies are attempting to block dozens of lawsuits that seek to hold them financially liable for disaster costs linked to climate change. While local officials argue the industry should help pay for these escalating costs, the companies contend that litigation is an improper way to address a global issue. The Trump administration supports the companies, arguing the lawsuits are an attempt to impose emissions regulations through the courts.

The court is also scheduled to consider a case in December regarding state bans on semiautomatic rifles, such as AR-15s. While about a dozen states have banned these weapons to reduce gun violence, challengers argue the laws violate the Second Amendment. The court, which holds a conservative majority, has expanded gun rights in recent years, and four justices previously indicated the court would eventually address this issue.