New Jersey Faith Groups Unite for Climate Action: Support the Climate Superfund Act Over Fossil Fuels

By Raeanne Raccagno
News Editor

As the New Jersey Climate Superfund Act makes its way through legislation, many people and groups are rallying for its passage. They lobby, attend rallies, and share prayers, all to protect the Earth, which many see as a cherished gift.

In April and May, Empower New Jersey hosted climate meetings across several towns. Partnering with various organizations, they encouraged local governments to support the Climate Superfund Act. For example, on May 20, the Montclair Town Council voted 5-2 to approve a resolution backing the act, joining over 30 other municipalities in support.

The resolution followed a meeting held at Montclair Township’s First Congregational Church. This church has a green team that promotes environmental activities. According to Green Faith, an interfaith organization dedicated to climate action, “What Green Faith does so well is it connects all these different people so we can amplify each other’s efforts and voices,” said Tracey Stephens, a New Jersey organizer for Green Faith. She highlighted the moral duty to take action on climate change, noting how faith can inspire community efforts.

If passed, the Climate Superfund Act would hold fossil fuel companies accountable for damage caused by greenhouse gas emissions since 1995. Within two years of the law’s enactment, the state treasurer must assess the financial impact of these emissions. The costs of climate-related disasters in New Jersey have been staggering, with 13 significant events recorded in just the last decade, costing the state nearly $7 billion. “We’ve spent the third most per capita in the nation regarding climate disasters,” noted Sen. John McKeon, a primary sponsor of the bill.

The New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection will also determine how much responsibility each fossil fuel company holds relative to their emissions. Companies will then be charged to fund a “Climate Superfund Cost Recovery Program.” This ensures that those responsible for the pollution contribute to cleaning it up, as Stephens pointed out, “It’s just common sense that if you are causing the mess, you have to clean it up.”

The bill passed the Assembly environment committee on March 10 and awaits further committee scheduling. Supporters are urging a vote before New Jersey Governor Phil Murphy’s term ends in January, as a new governor may restart the approval process.

During recent meetings, attendees were encouraged to reach out to Assembly Speaker Craig Coughlin to advocate for the bill. Young voices like Montclair High School student Henry Baker Heivly emphasized the urgency of the cause, stating, “We have a voice and we need to use it to fight for our future.” He also underlined how those most affected by climate change often lack power, reinforcing a call for action from the Christian community. “Christianity has a long history of environmentalism,” he explained, reminding everyone that faith can guide us to protect creation.

Looking ahead, champions of the act plan to host a major rally on June 2 in Trenton. “We bring a different perspective and a moral authority that might resonate more with those in power,” Stephens concluded, highlighting the communal responsibility that faith encourages.

For more information on environmental initiatives and advocacy, you can visit [Green Faith](https://greenfaith.org/) and [CivicStory](http://www.civicstory.org/).

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