This coverage is made possible through a partnership with Grist and Interlochen Public Radio in Northern Michigan.
Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel announced plans to sue fossil fuel companies for their contribution to climate change, harming the state’s economy and ways of life.
Nessel emphasized the need to hold these companies accountable, stating, “It’s long past time that we step up and hold the fossil fuel companies responsible for all these damages.”
Michigan intends to join other governments in seeking compensation from the industry to address climate damage.
The litigation aims to recover losses related to severe weather events, agricultural risks, and the impact on industries like skiing and sled dog races.
Nessel highlighted the case’s scope, indicating that the state could potentially receive billions to address climate change damages with the support of outside lawyers.
Investigations from Inside Climate News and the Los Angeles Times revealed that fossil fuel companies were aware of the risks of greenhouse gas emissions for years but downplayed the threats.
Recent congressional hearings uncovered documents where BP executives acknowledged natural gas’s role in climate change but promoted it as a transitional fuel.
In response to Michigan’s lawsuit plans, the American Petroleum Institute expressed opposition, calling the legal actions meritless and politically motivated.
Despite criticism, Nessel’s department continues to work with state agencies to evaluate the impacts of climate change in Michigan.
The state has a successful track record of pursuing legal action against industries causing harm, such as the opioid and PFAS manufacturers.
