The state of Montana has a constitutional obligation to protect its residents from climate change.
It compels Montana, a major coal and gas producing state, to consider climate change when deciding whether to approve or renew fossil fuel projects.
The state Constitution guarantees residents “the right to a clean and healthful environment.” In a lawsuit, Held v. Montana, 16 young people argued that the government had violated that right by enabling rampant development of fossil fuels, contributing to climate change and polluting the state.
The young plaintiffs testified about extreme weather events that threaten their families and their health.
They also spoke of the anguish they felt as they considered a future dimmed by environmental collapse.
Locations:
Montana, . Montana