CONTACT: Sasha Tenenbaum
Senior Manager, Media and Public Engagement
stenenbaum@momscleanairforce.org
(917) 887- 0146
August 14, 2023 – There is a momentous verdict in the youth-led constitutional climate lawsuit, Held v. State of Montana, which concluded late June in Helena, Montana. Judges have sided with youth, saying failure to consider emissions, climate impacts violate state constitution. In response to this history-in-the-making legal precedent, Moms Clean Air Force’s Montana field organizer Michelle Uberuaga issued the following statement:
“This is a historic and joyous moment for Montana and the world over. These young plaintiffs made a clear and compelling case that they have a fundamental right to a clean and healthful environment and that the state of Montana cannot ignore the consequences of climate change on their futures. As more youth across the country try to secure their rights to a safe climate, we will give them our full support and do all we can to make sure the momentum on their side is unstoppable. Fortunately, momentum is strong and growing. In fact, the youth victory in Montana could well serve as a new legal underpinning for future cases including in the state of Hawaii where 14 youth are taking their case to court next June 2024,” said Michelle Uberuaga, Montana field organizer for Moms Clean Air Force.”
NOTE TO REPORTERS/EDITORS:
With a background in the trial itself and as a former practicing environmental attorney with knowledge of land use and energy work across the state of Montana, Michelle is available for comment.
RESOURCES:
- Our Children’s Trust’s Press Release: “Sweeping Constitutional Win for Held v. State of Montana Youth Plaintiffs”
- Michelle Uberuaga’s Op-Ed in Billings Gazette: “Michelle Uberuaga: A mom’s perspective on youth climate trial”
- Michelle Uberuaga’s Statement Ahead of Trial: “Moms Stand in Solidarity with Held v. State of Montana Youth Plaintiffs in the Fight for Their Future”
- Photo Selection for Media Use