Push for Transparency Led by Industry-Based Task Force on Climate-Related Financial Disclosures

On January 9, 2026, the Ninth Circuit heard oral argument in an appeal challenging California’s climate reporting laws: SB 253 (emissions disclosure) and SB 261 (climate‑related financial risk reporting).¹ The court previously stayed enforcement of SB 261 pending appeal, leaving SB 253 in place for now. We have covered the procedural background leading to oral argument here.

The 30th United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP30) ended on November 22, 2025. Among other things, the package of decisions reflected in the Belém Political Package brings renewed focus on scaling up climate finance and accelerating implementation of the Paris Agreement. The event sharpened focus on implementation and finance rather than binding global commitments. Key issues emerging out of COP30 include:

On November 18, the United States Court of Appeals for the Ninth Circuit granted a partial injunction blocking enforcement of California’s climate-related financial risk disclosure law (SB 261). Inaugural reports under SB 261 were intended to be published by reporting entities by January 1, 2026. Akin wrote on the subject in full detail here.

Akin is proud to be a Platinum Sponsor of Infocast’s Projects & Money Summit taking place January 12–14, 2026 in New Orleans.