'Sue and settle' involves the creation of environmental rules and regulations through lawsuits filed by environmental groups against the EPA, not through Congress or proper rule-making.

Scott Pruitt’s quote criticizes the practice of "sue and settle" in which environmental groups file lawsuits against the EPA (Environmental Protection Agency) to create or alter environmental rules and regulations. Pruitt argues that this method bypasses the traditional legislative process, where laws should be created by Congress or through proper rule-making procedures. He implies that sue and settle allows special interest groups to exert influence on regulatory decisions without going through the proper channels of democratic governance.

The term "sue and settle" refers to a process where environmental organizations sue the EPA, and instead of going through a lengthy legal battle, the EPA often settles with the plaintiffs, agreeing to enforce new regulations or change existing ones. Pruitt is critical of this practice because he believes it undermines the checks and balances of the legislative process and allows unelected groups to shape policy through judicial action rather than public debate or congressional legislation.

Pruitt’s concern is that lawsuits by environmental groups could result in regulations that are not properly vetted or debated, leading to potentially overreaching rules that may not reflect the broader public interest. He advocates for more transparent, democratic processes for establishing environmental policies rather than relying on settlements that can be influenced by specific interest groups.

Ultimately, Pruitt’s quote reflects his stance on regulatory reform and his desire for more accountability in how environmental regulations are created. He emphasizes the need for legislative oversight and public participation in the rule-making process, suggesting that the sue and settle approach bypasses essential democratic procedures.