As the Trump administration continues its war on clean energy and the climate through the so-called “Big Beautiful Bill” and massive cuts to critical programs, many states are fighting back.  While the administration prioritizes their Big Oil & Gas buddies’ profits, these states are putting people first. Electricity costs and climate threats are rising, and they know now is the time to bring more energy and climate programs to their residents, not take them away. From taking legal action, to passing clean energy bills and more, here’s how states are pushing to restore slashed funding and fast-track new projects.

States fight the Trump administration and Big Polluters in the courts

States are taking the fight to protect their communities and the environment to court, holding Trump and Big Polluters accountable. While the Trump administration cuts funding for vital programs, states are fighting back to protect themselves from pollution and climate disasters.

• After 20 states filed a lawsuit, a federal judge ruled that the Trump administration cannot redirect funds from a $4 billion FEMA program that  helps communities prepare for climate disasters.
• New Jersey reached a record $2 billion settlement with several major polluters for decades of PFAS contamination, holding them accountable for their harm to the environment and public health.
• A federal court upheld California’s landmark clean heat rule to jumpstart replacement of gas boilers and water heaters statewide. Replacing them with electric models is expected to reduce emissions by around 5.6 tons per day.
• Washington state took NOAA to court after it cancelled $9 million in funding. The funds would support a climate resilience program to protect against sea level rise and flooding, as well as the state’s tribal stewards program to train Native American students for climate careers.
• A judge ordered the Trump administration to close its Florida immigration detention center following a lawsuit by the Miccosukee tribe and environmental groups. In addition to its inhumane conditions for people held there, the facility threatens surrounding Indigenous communities and vital ecosystems.

States bet on clean energy to boost their electric grids

While the Trump administration attacks clean energy to help out their Big Oil & Gas buddies, many states are still pushing forward to bring the benefits of clean energy to their communities. Across the nation, states like Maine and Colorado are fast-tracking clean energy programs before federal energy tax credits disappear as the “Big Beautiful Bill” takes effect.

States introduce bills to improve the energy grid

• Almost 300 bills to boost energy grid modernization were proposed in state legislatures across the country. These bills focus on improving state energy systems to meet demand and address high electricity costs.

States fast-track clean energy projects

• Maine expedited its clean energy projects, which will supply 1,600 gigawatt-hours of clean, affordable energy to the state’s grid.
• Colorado also advanced its clean energy projects to supply more energy to the grid, and created an online tool to help residents access home clean energy programs.

Electric vehicle charging infrastructure expands

• Across the country, electric vehicle charging networks continued to expand. With the help of private funding, an estimated 16,700 charging stations will open this year.
• Massachusetts committed $46 million towards electric vehicle charging stations. These stations will help the state achieve its goal to reduce transportation emissions to 34% below 1990 levels by 2030.

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In this challenging political moment, it is more important than ever to make your voice heard to protect people and the planet. One of the most effective ways to get involved is to call your members of Congress. If you’ve never called before, or you just need a refresher, check out our post on how to call your members of Congress in 3 easy steps!