Youth Climate Lawsuit Montana | Business | ktbs.com - KTBS

Youth Climate Lawsuit Montana | Business | ktbs.com

Youth Climate Lawsuit Montana
FILE - Gas emissions rises from a coal-burning power plant in Colstrip, Mont., July 1, 2013. Youth plaintiffs who are challenging the constitutionality of a Montana policy that does not require state agencies to consider the effect of greenhouse gas emissions in issuing permits for fossil fuel development, argue climate change caused by burning coal and other fossil fuels affects their lives by causing them to breathe smoke due to increasing forest fires, limiting their recreational opportunities and in some cases, harming their families' livelihoods. The scheduled two-week trial begins Monday, June 12, 2023, in Helena, Mont. Matt Brown - staff, AP

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Youth environmentalists bring Montana climate case to trial after 12 years, seeking to set precedent

A first-of-its kind trial in Montana will decide if the constitutional right to a healthy, livable climate is protected by state law. Experts say a ruling against the state could set an important legal precedent but is unlikely to change policies in fossil fuel-friendly Montana. Two weeks of testimony starting Monday will include 16 young plaintiffs hoping to call out state officials for promoting policies encouraging oil, gas and coal development while failing to curb planet-warming emissions. Experts for the state are expected to downplay climate change impacts and Montana’s contributions to global greenhouse gas emissions.

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