Amends Fiscal Year 2023 annual appropriations act to prohibit use of appropriated moneys for, or to support, certain State litigation related to climate change and greenhouse gas emissions.
Impact
If enacted, A5011 would significantly impact how New Jersey addresses climate-related litigation by restricting the state’s ability to use its financial resources in lawsuits claiming fossil fuel companies are responsible for climate change harms. This move could be seen as a step toward protecting fossil fuel industries from potential liability claims that arise from their business operations. Supporters of the bill argue that without clear evidence linking such entities to climate harm, state funds should not be utilized in pursuit of these cases, reflecting a broader skepticism regarding climate change lawsuits.
Summary
Assembly Bill 5011, introduced in New Jersey, seeks to amend the Fiscal Year 2023 annual appropriations act by prohibiting the use of state funds to support certain litigation concerning climate change and greenhouse gas emissions. The bill specifically targets litigation against entities operating within the coal, natural gas, and petroleum sectors, asserting that these activities could be blamed for climate change-related harms. The proposed legislation comes amidst a backdrop of increasing legal actions tied to climate responsibility, raising questions about state involvement and funding in such legal disputes.
Contention
Opponents of A5011 may argue that this bill undermines accountability for fossil fuel industries regarding their contributions to climate change and inhibits the ability of the state to seek justice for its residents affected by environmental issues. Critics could view the prohibition of litigation financing as a legal shield for industries contributing to climate change, depriving affected communities of necessary reparations. The ongoing scientific debate around the causation of climate change and its effects further complicates the context of this legislation, as many believe it is essential to hold these industries accountable for their environmental impacts.
Amends Fiscal Year 2023 annual appropriations act to prohibit use of appropriated moneys for, or to support, certain State litigation related to climate change and greenhouse gas emissions.
Amends Fiscal Year 2023 annual appropriations act to prohibit use of appropriated moneys for, or to support, certain State litigation related to climate change and greenhouse gas emissions.