In a recent development, Oklahoma's Attorney General, Gentner Drummond, has announced the firing of the outside legal team hired to defend a state law that prohibits state pension systems from contracting with companies that limit investment in the oil and gas industry. This decision comes just days after a judge temporarily blocked the enforcement of the statute.

Drummond released a statement on Thursday, stating that he is terminating the counsel at the Plaxico Law Firm, which was handpicked by state Treasurer Todd Russ to defend the law. Furthermore, Drummond also stated that he would remove Russ from any decision-making authority over the legal defense moving forward.

The ruling to dismiss the legal team came after a state judge issued a temporary injunction on Tuesday, which prevented the law's enforcement in the oil-rich state of Oklahoma. The judge cited concerns that the law violated the state constitution and was vaguely written. The temporary injunction was a result of a lawsuit filed by a retired state employee challenging the measure.

Expressing disappointment, Drummond commented, "It is extremely disappointing that the counsel hired by Treasurer Russ was unable to secure a favorable ruling in defense of Oklahoma's anti-ESG law." The term "ESG" refers to environmental, social, and governance policies.

In response to Drummond's decision, Russ, who is also a Republican, stated that he had initially requested Drummond to defend the law but his requests were rejected. Russ disputed the removal of his decision-making authority, citing legal grounds for appeal. Russ expressed his hope to have the attorney general defending the law from the beginning.

The controversial law, enacted in 2022, is part of a broader wave of Republican-sponsored bills across the country aimed at protecting fossil fuel companies from climate-driven constraints imposed by certain Wall Street firms. In Oklahoma, the law specifically prohibits state agencies from engaging in business with financial firms that limit investments in energy companies. Additionally, it requires the state treasurer to maintain a list of these companies, even if they continue to own shares in fossil fuel firms.

The future of Oklahoma's anti-ESG law remains uncertain as it faces legal challenges and potential appeals. As Oklahomans await further developments, the conflicting perspectives between the attorney general and state treasurer highlight the charged atmosphere surrounding this contentious issue.