West Virginia Attorney General investigates environmental groups

West Virginia Attorney General JB McCuskey has launched an investigation into the state’s leading environmental organizations, alleging “unfair or deceptive acts” regarding their fundraising and climate change advocacy. The subpoenas demand a decade of internal records, including public statements, internal deliberations, and donation requests, citing possible violations of the West Virginia Consumer Credit and Protection Act.

Environmental groups, including the West Virginia Rivers Coalition and 350.org, have filed lawsuits to dismiss the subpoenas, characterizing the inquiry as a “political action” intended to stifle speech and harass the organizations. McCuskey has stated that protecting the state’s fossil fuel industry from liberal climate policies is a priority and has called on federal authorities to investigate and defund climate advocacy groups.