Montana Youth Secure Historic Win in Lawsuit Against State Over Climate Change
In a significant victory for young activists fighting against climate change, a group of 16 young individuals from Montana have won a historic lawsuit against the state. District Court Judge Kathy Seeley ruled in their favor, stating that Montana’s support for fossil fuels was unconstitutional due to its negative impact on the environment. The case, known as Held v. State of Montana, was initially filed in March 2020 by these young plaintiffs, ranging from ages 5 to 22. This landmark decision marks a crucial milestone in the fight against climate change.
During the two-week trial, the plaintiffs presented compelling evidence demonstrating the adverse effects of increasing carbon dioxide emissions. They argued that these emissions were responsible for rising temperatures, drought, wildfires, and decreased snowpack. Judge Seeley acknowledged the disproportionate harm suffered by children and young people due to fossil fuel pollution and climate change impacts. In her 103-page ruling, she also invalidated statutes that prevented the analysis and remedies of greenhouse gas emissions and climate effects.
The legal nonprofit organization, Our Children’s Trust, brought forward the case on behalf of the young activists. Julia Olson, the Chief Legal Counsel and Executive Director of the organization, expressed her satisfaction with the ruling, calling it a game-changer. She emphasized that this decision holds immense significance, not only for Montana but also for the youth, democracy, and the planet itself. Olson also predicted that similar rulings would follow in the future.
Montana is home to the largest estimated recoverable coal reserves in the United States and ranks as the fourth-largest coal-producing state. The state’s attorney general’s office has announced its intention to appeal the ruling. Emily Flower, a spokeswoman for Attorney General Austin Knudsen, criticized the decision, referring to it as absurd and stating that Montanans cannot be held responsible for climate change.
While the outcome of the appeal remains uncertain, this landmark ruling highlights the growing importance of addressing climate change and protecting the environment. The voices of young activists are being heard, and their fight for a clean and healthful environment is making a profound impact. As wildfires rage across the West, fueled by fossil fuel pollution, this victory in Montana provides hope and inspiration for future generations in their efforts to combat climate change and preserve the planet for years to come.
