1 week ago
22
Despite national election results favoring pro-fossil-fuel candidates, voters in five states passed ballot initiatives directing billions toward environmental projects.
Joseph Winters reports for Grist.
In short:
- Minnesota extended a constitutional amendment to keep directing state lottery revenue to an environmental trust fund, which funds projects from local parks to climate research.
- California approved $10 billion in bonds for drought, wildfire and coastal protection efforts, while Colorado allocated sports betting revenue for water conservation.
- Voters in Rhode Island and Louisiana passed measures to finance flood prevention, forest health and coastal restoration, with Louisiana setting up a fund for renewable energy revenue.
Key quote:
“It’s spreading the message that people do want these progressive policies…to protect their well-being and the well-being of our planet.”
— B. Rosas, policy manager, Climate Generation
Why this matters:
These state-level wins signal widespread support for environmental action, even in conservative-leaning areas. As federal climate policy remains uncertain, local initiatives can play a vital role in advancing climate resilience and conservation goals.
Read more: Climate Week: Fossil fuel industry slammed for ignoring climate goals
