Federalism and the Fight for Climate Policy at the Subnational Level

Author: Michael Zych

Field of Study: Political Science

Program Affiliation: Source Project Research Program

Faculty Mentors: Matthew Cole

Easel: 58

Timeslot: Afternoon

Abstract: The United States is the most powerful economy in the modern world, with massive industries relying on fossil fuels. However, as a result of the modern political climate of the nation, little has been done in the past decade to combat anthropogenic climate change. This study seeks to examine how the states of California and New York have emerged as leaders of climate policy at the subnational level. Through examining case studies of state-level policies, polling information, and grassroots efforts seeking climate justice, a clear picture of the reality of climate policy in the United States can be formed. This study indicates that these states’ policies are not only effective, but popularly supported and successfully address the needs of the people of the country for adaptation, mitigation, and reparation in the face of the climate crisis. These results can provide constructive criticism of the states’ climate action as well as an indication to other states that pursuing climate policy is necessary and possible.