The Green Gavels Tool, developed by the Michigan League of Conservation Voters (MLCV), is designed to hold Michigan Supreme Court justices accountable for their decisions impacting the state’s environment. This innovative tool aims to help Michiganders understand the role of the courts and individual justices in protecting Michigan’s land, air, and water.
- Case Evaluation: Analyzes and rates Michigan Supreme Court decisions on environmental issues, assigning color-coded gavels—green for positive environmental impact, yellow for neutral, and red for negative—to reflect each decision’s conservation impact.
- Justice Accountability: Tracks and publishes individual justices’ voting records on environmental cases, providing transparency and enabling the public to assess each justice’s commitment to environmental protection.
- Collaborative Development: Created in partnership with the University of Michigan Law School and a panel of expert environmental attorneys, ensuring comprehensive and informed evaluations of court decisions.
- Public Engagement: Empowers Michigan residents by providing accessible information on judicial decisions affecting the environment, fostering informed voting and civic participation.
Through these efforts, the Green Gavels Tool enhances transparency and accountability within Michigan’s judiciary concerning environmental conservation, enabling citizens to make informed decisions and advocate for the protection of natural resources.