Current work in wildlife, rivers, public lands, and climate

WHAT: Court Hearing on the State defendants’ Motion to Dismiss the Atmospheric Trust Litigation (ATL) case brought by New Mexico youth impacted by climate change and concerned about their State’s failure to protect critical resources under a scientifically viable climate recovery plan.

Attorneys and plaintiffs will be available to answer questions after the hearing.

Akilah Sanders-Reed, et al. v. SusanaMartinez, et al.; Case No. D-0101-CV-2011-01514

WHEN: Thursday, January 26 at 9:00 a.m. Mountain Standard Time

WHERE: First Judicial District, Courtroom 250, Judge Sarah Singleton

100 Catron St, Santa Fe, NM 87501

WHY: Attorney for the plaintiffs, Samantha Ruscavage-Barz, will appear before Judge Singleton and argue that the case should not be dismissed and that these young New Mexicans should have their day in court. The plaintiffs simply ask the Court to declare that the State must do more to protect critical state resources, like water and air, for future generations.

The judge will hear arguments on the jurisdictional defenses raised by the State, which attempts to prevent the court from hearing the substance of the case. In the end, Judge Singleton will decide whether the youth will have the opportunity to present the merits of their case.

The New Mexico lawsuit is part of one of the most remarkable climate litigation strategies to date. The strategy was launched on May 4, 2011 as part of the international iMatter Trust Campaign, where youth plaintiffs filed legal actions in 49states and the District of Columbia, as well as a federal lawsuit. The objective is to require governments to develop and implement plans to protect and restore the atmosphere, are source protected by the public trust doctrine.

To find out more about youth across the country taking legal action to compel their governments to protect the atmosphere and adopt scientifically viable greenhouse gas emissions reductions plans, visit: www.ourchildrenstrust.org.