Fossil fuel is a contributor to climate change and this fact has been known for decades. Yet fossil fuel companies continue to profit with little accountability for the damage they have created.
The state of New York is changing that. Late last year the Climate Change Superfund Act was passed into law and will allow the state to fine the largest greenhouse gas emitters up to $75 billion. The polluters will pay into a fund over the course of 25 years and the money in the fund will be used to repair existing damage and implement protection measures against the impact of climate change.
New York is the second state to implement such a law, with Vermont passing similar legislation.
This is an important step in making the polluters financially accountable.
What other states can join the movement?