MD SB432

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

Permits the Attorney General to hire outside counsel to assist with climate-related litigation if determined to be in the State's best interest

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

Restricts Fund expenditures to programs addressing climate harms (air pollution, extreme heat, flooding, drought, wildfires, storm damage, ecosystem changes, saltwater intrusion, vector/waterborne pathogens) and litigation-related expenses

Takes effect June 1, 2026