Attorney General Aaron Frey has filed a lawsuit against several major fossil fuel companies, accusing them of misleading the public in Maine about climate change. The lawsuit targets Exxon, Shell, Chevron, BP, Sunoco, and the American Petroleum Institute. It claims these entities concealed their knowledge about the environmental impact of fossil fuels for decades.
The complaint alleges that these companies were aware as early as the 1960s of the potentially catastrophic effects of fossil fuel consumption. Despite this knowledge, they allegedly focused on protecting their assets and used public relations strategies to cast doubt on climate science and delay transitions to lower-carbon energy sources.
Attorney General Frey stated, "For over half a century, these companies chose to fuel profits instead of following their science to prevent what are now likely irreversible, catastrophic climate effects." He emphasized that this conduct has imposed significant financial and environmental burdens on Maine.
The lawsuit details various legal violations by the defendants under Maine law, including failure to warn, negligence, nuisance (public and private), trespass, and breaches under the Maine Unfair Trade Practices Act. It also accuses the American Petroleum Institute of aiding in deceptive practices.
Governor Janet Mills supported the legal action saying it was time for accountability: “Last winter’s devastating storms are just further proof that climate change is harming our lives...and it is time for the fossil fuel industry to be held responsible."
Maine's legal action seeks compensation for both past and future damages related to climate change impacts attributed to these companies. The state demands a jury trial aiming for damages recovery along with penalties and cessation of alleged deceptive practices in Maine.
This case joins more than 20 similar lawsuits across states like New Jersey and California challenging oil companies over climate deception.