US fossil fuel lobbyists also represent hundreds of cities fighting for climate damages
Summary
Many local governments in the US hire lobbyists who also work for fossil fuel companies. These firms lobby for climate damage funding but simultaneously represent fossil fuel interests that oppose climate laws. This creates conflicts for cities seeking help to recover from climate-related harms.Key Facts
- Over 300 local governments have hired lobbyists who also represent fossil fuel companies.
- Another 568 local governments hired fossil fuel lobbyists for issues not directly related to climate.
- Some lobbyists work for groups like ExxonMobil and the American Petroleum Institute, which oppose climate action laws.
- The law firm Greenberg Traurig lobbies both for fossil fuel interests and local governments seeking climate damage help.
- Miami-Dade county hired Greenberg Traurig to lobby for shoreline protection while the firm represents fossil fuel companies fighting climate responsibility bills.
- States like New York and Vermont passed climate superfund laws in 2024 to make fossil fuel companies pay for climate damages.
- Industry lobbyists have influenced lawmakers to vote against climate superfund bills even when public support was strong.
- Local governments may be unaware of the conflicting work their lobbyists do for fossil fuel clients.
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