Young activists push for Nebraska Green Amendment amid legal concerns
A group of young environmental advocates gathered at Nebraska’s Capitol, urging lawmakers to support a Green Amendment that would enshrine the right to a clean environment in the state constitution, while opponents warned of costly lawsuits and threats to property rights.
Paul Hammel reports for the Nebraska Examiner.
In short:
- The proposed Green Amendment would give Nebraskans a constitutional right to clean air, water, and soil, allowing lawsuits against state regulators who fail to protect the environment.
- Opponents, including Gov. Jim Pillen, argue the amendment could lead to legal overreach, threatening private property and agricultural practices.
- Supporters say similar amendments in other states have not led to excessive litigation and that young people are pushing for stronger environmental protections.
Key quote:
“Nebraska is a great place to grow up and raise a family. (But) if we do not take steps to protect our environment, that will change.”
— Sheridan Macy, Omaha attorney and drafter of the proposed Green Amendment
Why this matters:
Nebraska’s reliance on agriculture and industry makes environmental protection a contentious issue. Supporters see the Green Amendment as a safeguard against pollution, citing past failures in state oversight, like the AltEn ethanol plant disaster. Opponents worry about potential legal and economic consequences, arguing it could impose strict limits on farming and land use. Similar measures in Montana, New York, and Pennsylvania provide a precedent.
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