Report Discussion: A Role for State Attorneys General in a Just Transition

On Thursday, December 15 from 1:00-2:00 pm ET we held a a virtual discussion about “A Role for State Attorneys General in a Just Transition,” a new report issued by the State Energy & Environmental Impact Center and the State and Local Enforcement Project at the Harvard Labor and Worklife Program. We heardremarks from labor and environmental experts and an overview of the report, along with a moderated discussion and Q&A.

As the United States shifts toward cleaner technologies and away from fossil fuels, important questions arise about the impact of this transition on workers. How can we ensure that the transition leads to high-quality jobs in emerging clean energy industries, and that the benefits of the transition are equitable? A number of scholars and activists have proposed solutions that address climate change while also supporting workers and increasing economic justice.

A new report explores these issues, with a focus on what attorneys general can do in relation to the upcoming transition. The report provides an overview of AG powers and labor and environmental enforcement activity. The report offers a series of ideas and options for state attorneys general interested in playing a role in driving a more just transition, from enforcement and other action to help create good jobs in the clean energy economy, to measures to address issues in the fossil fuel sector.