Young Plaintiffs Launch New Federal Lawsuit Against Trump Administration’s Energy Policies
HELENA – In a pivotal moment for climate activism, a group of young plaintiffs who previously challenged the state of Montana’s environmental policies are now taking their fight national. Ten of the original plaintiffs from the Held climate lawsuit have teamed up with 12 new members to file a suit against President Donald Trump and his administration’s energy policies, claiming violations of their rights to a “clean and healthful environment.”
Led by 19-year-old Eva Lighthiser, the plaintiffs are asking a federal court in Butte to block three executive orders that they argue promote fossil fuel production at the expense of environmental health. "What worries me is that during a time when we need action to combat climate change, we’re moving in the opposite direction," Lighthiser expressed. The lawsuit cites direct harms experienced by the plaintiffs, including worsening wildfires and extreme summer heat attributed to climate change.
The targeted orders include one that rolls back regulations perceived as burdensome to fossil fuel development, another declaring an “energy emergency” to expedite production, and a third promoting greater coal utilization. The Trump administration contends that these measures are essential for maintaining energy reliability and reducing costs.
Nate Bellinger, a senior attorney with Our Children’s Trust, emphasized that the plaintiffs’ case is framed around the fundamental rights to health and security, arguing that these executive actions undermine those rights by escalating greenhouse gas emissions.
Among the 22 plaintiffs, 15 hail from Montana, while the others come from states including Oregon and California. With a shared commitment to protecting their future, the group aims to stand up against policies they believe threaten their health and wellbeing. Lighthiser expressed pride in leading this new endeavor, highlighting the significance of fighting for environmental justice.
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