A coalition of Democratic-led states and cities is suing the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) over a rule giving businesses more time to transition away from certain hydrofluorocarbon refrigerants used in commercial refrigeration systems.

The EPA delayed stricter limits until 2032, arguing the earlier deadlines would force businesses to replace costly equipment before the end of its useful life and raise prices for consumers. The lawsuit seeks to overturn that flexibility and restore the faster phaseout.

“Businesses need realistic timelines, regulatory certainty and the flexibility to replace expensive equipment when it makes operational sense,” said James Lee, managing director of public policy services for the Ohio Manufacturers’ Association. “Dragging commonsense relief back into court threatens to saddle employers and consumers with costs the EPA is trying to avoid.” 7/23/2026