Climate Activists Rally in Albany, Urging Governor to Sign Climate Adaptation Bill
Climate activists in Albany, New York, gathered in a festive reception room near Governor Kathy Hochul’s office to urge her to sign the Climate Change Superfund Act before the end of the year. The bill, which aims to address the increasing costs of climate change damages, would make New York the second state in the nation to implement such legislation.
The group of about 85 organizers, sponsored by 43 environmental organizations, staged a sit-in protest, chanting “climate change is coming to town” and calling for the swift signing of the bill with no major changes. However, 12 organizers were arrested for continuing the demonstration past 7 p.m. and were charged with criminal trespass.
The Climate Change Superfund Act proposes to hold fossil fuel companies accountable for the damages caused by their products, raising $75 billion over 25 years. This revenue would be allocated towards climate adaptation projects, with at least 40 percent earmarked for disadvantaged communities. The bill aims to shift the burden of climate adaptation away from taxpayers onto the fossil fuel industry.
While business groups have opposed the bill, economists argue that the costs cannot be passed on to consumers, as they cover past sales. Governor Hochul has engaged in negotiations over potential amendments to the bill, but activists are adamant that the core principles of the legislation must remain intact.
If signed, the Climate Change Superfund Act would make New York the second state after Vermont to pass such legislation. Other states like California, Maryland, Massachusetts, and New Jersey are also developing similar bills. Hochul has until the end of the year to make a decision on the bill, which activists believe could make a significant difference in the lives of many New Yorkers.
The story was updated on December 11, 2024, with new information about the arrests of protestors. Inside Climate News, the organization behind the reporting, is a nonprofit dedicated to providing free, in-depth coverage of climate and environmental issues. Donations from readers support their work in holding polluters accountable, exposing environmental injustice, and inspiring action.