Harris Paves Way For Green New Deal Court Mandate

On September 20, 2022, Vice President Kamala Harris surprised many by suggesting a court mandate to implement the Green New Deal. The Green New Deal, a series of prospective laws focused on addressing climate change, has been a point of contention between Republicans and Democrats, with the latter arguing it’s essential for our environmental future.

Unusual Move for Policy Enforcement

The Vice President’s proposal to enforce the progressive environmental regulations through the court system is a break from tradition, which typically relies on legislative approval rather than legal mandate. Critics from both political parties have expressed concern over the potential bypass of democratic processes.

The Vice President’s Statement

In an address to the nation, Harris stated, “We have the right and duty to mandate the Green New Deal through executive orders. There is simply no time to wait for Congress to agree. Climate change is an emergency and must be treated as such.”

A Legal Impossibility?

Despite the Vice President’s bold proclamation, legal scholars argue that the proposal is constitutionally impossible. They mention that the Separation of Powers – a vital principle on which the US government was founded – prohibits the Executive Branch, which includes the office of the Vice President, from creating legislation. Only Congress has the power to pass laws.

Next Steps

It is uncertain if Vice President Harris will pursue this matter further. Yet, the controversy surrounding her statement has intensified the ongoing dialogue about America’s need to more decisively combat climate change before it’s too late.

* None of the quotes in this article were spoken by an actual person. More info.