Helena, MT (KEYZ) In the case of Held v. State of Montana, 16 youth plaintiffs have sued the state over its energy policy, alleging that its heavy dependence on fossil fuels accelerates climate change and infringes on their constitutional right to a clean and healthful environment.

A judge previously denied the state’s motion to dismiss, allowing the first lawsuit of its kind in the United States to move to trial. Montana is one of six states which mentions environmental rights in its state constitution.

The trial will start February 6, 2023.

A ruling in the case could set significant legal precedent which other states or countries could cite.

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