Oregon Senators Reject Proposal to Hold Fossil Fuel Industry Accountable for Climate Change Disasters

A proposed bill in Oregon aimed at holding fossil fuel companies accountable for climate damage will not move forward. The Senate Committee on Energy and Environment decided not to vote on the Make Polluters Pay Act, also known as Senate Bill 1187. This decision effectively stops the bill from progressing.

Sen. Janeen Sollman, the committee chair, mentioned that there simply wasn’t enough time to address the bill’s potential issues. It had only just had its first public hearing. She stated, “Good legislation requires adequate time and attention from our staff and advocates to ensure it achieves its goals.” Despite the setback, she expressed her commitment to working with anyone interested in protecting Oregon’s climate.

Sen. Khanh Pham, the bill’s sponsor, wanted the legislation to create a “climate superfund.” This fund would allocate money from major polluting companies, such as Exxon Mobil and Chevron, to address the financial burdens caused by climate change. These companies are responsible for a significant share of global greenhouse gas emissions.

Recent data reveal that climate-related disasters have already had a severe financial impact on Oregon. Wildfires, droughts, and severe storms have led to over $5 billion in damages since 2020, according to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA).

During the bill’s initial hearing, supporters came out in droves, including many young Oregonians and senior advocates. In contrast, only a few people voiced their opposition. Among them were lobbyists for Oregon Business and Industry and the Northwest Pulp and Paper Association. They argued that the bill was overly broad and impractical.

Interestingly, research indicates that implementing a cost for carbon emissions can effectively reduce pollution. Studies show that when companies face financial penalties for the carbon they emit, it encourages them to adopt cleaner practices. The MIT En-ROADS climate solution simulator suggests that putting a price on carbon is one of the most impactful policy decisions a government can make to combat climate change.

Similar proposals are gaining traction in other states. Vermont and New York passed similar legislation, and states like California and Massachusetts are considering their own versions. If these initiatives move forward, they could serve as a model for more comprehensive climate accountability in Oregon.

Oregon’s journey shows the growing urgency to address climate change and the financial implications of inaction. As extreme weather events become more frequent, the discussion around holding polluters accountable remains ever more pressing.



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Science & Environment | Environment | Fossil Fuels | Climate Change