State of Vermont files lawsuit against oil companies for misleading consumers

[garybeck]

https://www.mynbc5.com/article/vermont-attorney-general-tj-donovan-fossil-fuel-lawsuit-filed/37598018

Vermont files lawsuit against oil groups, alleging they misled consumers

BURLINGTON, Vt. —
Vermont's top prosecutor has filed a consumer protection lawsuit against several fossil fuel companies, alleging they misled the public for years about the environmental impacts of their products.

Attorney General T.J. Donovan announced the lawsuit Tuesday morning at a news conference in Burlington, pushing for added transparency with consumers in the state about potential environmental risks. In doing so, Vermont joins six other states that have filed similar lawsuits.


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Groups named in the complaint include Exxon Mobil, Shell Oil Company, CITGO Petroleum and other companies.

The state's report pointed to advertisements it said falsely portray the groups as benefiting the environment. It also states that each of the oil giants was clearly and repeatedly informed by credible experts on the threats fossil fuels pose, citing specific examples dating back to the 1950s.

"It's about time that Vermont consumers have the correct information to make an informed decision," Donovan said. "Give accurate information, don't mislead the public, don't greenwash your ads."

(more at link)

[elleng]

1. 'Groups named in the complaint include Exxon Mobil, Shell Oil Company, CITGO

Petroleum and other companies.

The state's report pointed to advertisements it said falsely portray the groups as benefiting the environment. It also states that each of the oil giants was clearly and repeatedly informed by credible experts on the threats fossil fuels pose, citing specific examples dating back to the 1950s.'

[SleeplessinSoCal]

2. wish other states could join suit like they did with immigration.

I have this horrible feeling that part of the denial is because of the fear of losing damage claims lawsuits. Shouldn't the fossil fuel industry pay for damages done? If law wasn't politicized wouldn't that be a no-brainer?

[garybeck]

3. i think it's important to have a court of law rule on these things

it can set a precedent and also be more "proof" that global warming is real and caused by petroleum use. one more reason that they can't say it's "opinion" or there isn't scientific consensus.