How New York State Is Defying Donald Trump’s Plans to Roll Back Climate Action
In a bold move, New York state has defied the expected rollback of climate action by signing a landmark law that holds fossil fuel companies accountable for the devastating impact of their greenhouse gas emissions. The legislation, known as the Climate Change Superfund Act, requires these companies to contribute to a fund that will support infrastructure projects aimed at protecting residents from the increasingly dangerous consequences of climate change.
Despite President-elect Donald Trump’s plans to dismantle environmental regulations and withdraw the United States from the Paris Agreement, New York has taken a decisive stance against his efforts. The law is designed to reduce taxpayers’ future financial burden by $3 billion annually, as stated by the New York Public Interest Research Group (NYPIRG).
The passage of this law comes at a critical time when the world is grappling with the dire consequences of climate change. With Trump expected to rescind federal funds allocated for climate action and dismantle regulations aimed at reducing emissions, states must take matters into their own hands. The Climate Change Superfund Act represents a beacon of hope in this dark period.
This law will not only serve as a deterrent to polluters but also set a precedent for other states to follow suit. By making fossil fuel companies financially responsible for the damage they have caused, New York has taken a giant leap towards ensuring a more sustainable future.
Furthermore, this law underscores the crucial role that state-level legislation can play in the fight against climate change. Even as the federal government fails to take decisive action, states are stepping up and taking matters into their own hands.
Source: www.theverge.com