For Immediate Release

August 14, 2023

MCV: “Today’s ruling is a win for all Montanans and a validation of the rights and freedoms guaranteed by the Montana State Constitution.”
 

Conservation group applauds Montana judge’s ruling that the state violated the shared constitutional right to a clean and healthy environment by not considering emissions and the promotion of fossil fuels

(HELENA, Mont.) – Today, Montana Conservation Voters released the following statement from Executive Director Whitney Tawney in response to District court judge Kathy Seeley’s ruling in Held v. Montana, a case brought by a group of Montana youth who sued the state arguing that Montana must do more to consider how emissions and climate change impact Montana’s environment. 

“Today’s ruling is a victory for all Montanans. Instead of passing laws that limit our ability to regulate pollution, the state now must consider how its policies affect the health and wellbeing of its citizens and environment. The ruling is also a reminder of the importance of Montana’s constitution, and we applaud the brave young Montanans who stood up to protect the rights and freedoms promised to everyone in this state.”

Judge Seeley ruled that emissions “have been proven to be a factor” in climate change and laws that limited the ability of regulators to consider climate effects were unconstitutional. The case was brought by 16 young Montanans, aged 5 to 22, who testified about how the impacts of climate change like droughts, wildfires, and smoke affect life in a state where outdoor pursuits are central to their lives and their communities. 

The ruling is sure to have a major impact on current and future state policies. According to a recent poll, 58% of Montanans say there is enough evidence that action must be taken to combat climate change. This concern is spread statewide with over 50% of Montanans from 54 of 56 counties expressing concern about global warming.

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Montana Conservation Voters is a statewide non-partisan membership organization dedicated to fighting for Montana’s air, water, open spaces, wildlife and public health. MCV provides voter participation services to tens of thousands of Montanans. Visit mtvoters.org for more details.

CONTACT

Anthony Licata

Communications Director
Montana Conservation Voters

406-426-2645