MD HB572

Authorizes the Attorney General to investigate and prosecute civil or criminal actions against publicly traded fossil fuel companies (coal, oil, gas) with market capitalization exceeding $1 billion for tortious or unlawful conduct contributing to climate change through fraud, deception, or other practices

Creates the Climate Crimes Accountability Fund as a special, nonlapsing fund to receive all revenues from judgments or settlements resulting from these actions

Fund may be used for programs addressing climate change harms including air pollution, extreme heat, drought, flooding, saltwater intrusion, storm damage, vectorborne and waterborne pathogens, wildfires, and ecosystem changes

Permits the Attorney General to hire outside counsel if determined to be in the State's best interest, with investigation, litigation, and trial preparation expenses payable from the Fund

Takes effect June 1, 2026