This is what happens when you read out-of-date magazines

In the March 2007 issue of Health magazine the following article appears:

California isn't waiting around for President Bush to do something about global warming. The state recently sued six U.S. and Japanese automakers, claiming carbon dioxide emissions from their vehicles are making global warming worse. The suit seeks cash compensation. It isn't likely to succeed, but maybe it'll shame car companies into developing eco-friendlier rides.

This is wrong and ignorant on so many levels I scarcely know where to begin. A few questions come immediately to mind, however:

If the suit isn't likely to succeed, why are they wasting the taxpayers' money on this? Or maybe they're not going to pay the lawyers? Or maybe they think blackmailing auto manufacturers gives them the moral high ground? Or maybe the inhabitants of the state of California have been inhaling too many exhaust fumes from buses and other forms of public transportation?

Or all of the above?