The US oil industry has stepped up efforts to resolve some of its biggest legal challenges since fossil fuel-friendly President Donald Trump took office, The Wall Street Journal reported.
At a White House meeting with the president, oil and gas executives raised questions about new state laws that would penalize contributions to greenhouse gas emissions. They also discussed dozens of climate lawsuits filed by state and local governments against companies including Exxon Mobil, Chevron, Shell and others.
Trump appeared to agree with the industry's position, noting that state actions could undermine his agenda for "energy dominance." The president said he would consider measures the administration could take to support the oil industry. The meeting was attended by executives from Exxon, Chevron, ConocoPhillips and Hess.
The publication notes that oil industry representatives have invested tens of millions of dollars in Trump's campaign, hoping that he will ensure long-term demand for their products. While the first weeks of his presidency have raised concerns among fracking companies, Trump has already begun to heed their demands, repealing environmental regulations, opening more land for drilling and encouraging increased natural gas exports. Now the industry is seeking to draw the administration's attention to its legal problems as it faces growing threats.