In a landmark move, New York state has enacted a law that will levy $75 billion in fines on fossil fuel companies over the next 25 years. Signed by Governor Kathy Hochul on Thursday, the legislation aims to hold oil, gas, and coal companies financially accountable for their role in contributing to climate change.

The law shifts the financial burden of climate adaptation and recovery away from taxpayers, placing it squarely on industries deemed responsible for environmental harm. The funds will support efforts to mitigate climate impacts, including fortifying roads, upgrading transit systems, improving water and sewage infrastructure, and reinforcing buildings and other critical facilities.

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“New York has sent a resounding message: those most responsible for the climate crisis will face consequences,” stated Senator Liz Krueger, a Democrat and co-sponsor of the bill.

Fossil fuel companies will be fined based on their greenhouse gas emissions between 2000 and 2018. Starting in 2028, these payments will be directed to a newly established Climate Superfund. The law applies to companies identified by New York’s Department of Environmental Conservation as having contributed more than 1 billion tons of global greenhouse gas emissions during the specified period.

This legislation makes New York the second state to adopt such a measure, following Vermont’s lead earlier this year. Both laws draw inspiration from state and federal superfund regulations that compel polluters to fund the cleanup of toxic waste.

According to Krueger, New York will face over $500 billion in climate-related damages and adaptation costs by 2050. She noted that major oil companies, which have collectively generated more than $1 trillion in profits since early 2021, have been aware of fossil fuels’ environmental impact since the 1970s.

Legal challenges are expected, with energy companies likely to argue that the law conflicts with federal regulations governing polluters and energy providers.

This bold legislation marks a significant shift in the financial accountability of climate change, potentially setting a precedent for other states and nations.