Since Gov. Scott became governor in 2011, he significantly reduced the budget for Florida Department of Environmental Protection (DEP). The budget reduction limited the department’s ability to carry out its mission.
The young Floridians are asking the court to order Gov. Scott and his administration to develop and implement a comprehensive plan to stabilize the climate system and protect natural resources.
In a statement, Guy Burns, the lead counsel representing the Florida youth, said, “It is the responsibility of the state to uphold the constitution, and these young people have a fundamental right to a stable climate system.”
Our Children’s Trust, a non-profit organization based in Oregon, is supporting the Florida youth’s complaint.
Gov. Scott’s spokesman calls lawsuit a political theater
In response to the lawsuit, McKinley Lewis, a spokesperson for Gov. Scott commented, “The governor signed one of the largest environmental protection budgets in Florida’s history last month – investing $4bn into Florida’s environment.”
