Water problems, coastal erosion, wildlife damage caused by Green House Gas (GHG) emissions from autos have cost the State of California millions and will cost millions more. California Attorney General Lockyer filed suit today against the six largest auto manufacturers, alleging their products cause a public nuisance substantially contributing to global warming. Attorney General Lockyer seeks damages on behalf of the people of California.
According to the A.G.'s press release:
"The complaint alleges that under federal and state common law the automakers have created a public nuisance by producing “millions of vehicles that collectively emit massive quantities of carbon dioxide,” a greenhouse gas that traps atmospheric heat and causes global warming. Under the law, a “public nuisance” is an unreasonable interference with a public right, or an action that interferes with or causes harm to life, health or property. The complaint asks the court to hold the defendants liable for damages, including future harm, caused by their ongoing, substantial contribution to the public nuisance of global warming."
According to sources quoted in a story found on Yahoo News, a similar suit in New York was dismissed as presenting a political question properly addressed to the legislature. California sues carmakers (Sep. 20, 2006).
Complaint in California v. General Motors, et al,
Attorney General's Press Release on Sep. 20, 2006.
Posted by dougsimpson at September 20, 2006 07:46 PM