State legislation records or official government announcements

Vermont Enacts First U.S. Law: Fossil Fuel Firms to Pay for Climate Damage, Sanders Applauds

May 8, 2024, 08:18 PM

Vermont has enacted a pioneering 'Climate Superfund' law, becoming the first state in the U.S. to mandate that fossil fuel companies pay for damage caused by climate change. This landmark legislation requires companies with high emissions to contribute financially to the state for destruction linked to climate-fueled extreme weather. Senator Bernie Sanders praised the bill, stating it forces the fossil fuel industry to pay for decades of environmental destruction for profit. The bill, which has been a subject of heated debate, reflects a significant shift in climate liability.