The Kentucky Supreme Court has ruled environmental groups can intervene in a court case involving a coal company and water pollution. Thursday’s ruling upholds a lower court decision that the groups can participate in a lawsuit filed by the state’s Energy and Environment Cabinet against Frasure Creek Mining. The state filed a lawsuit against the mining company for violations of the Clean Water Act in eastern Kentucky. A settlement was reached, but the environmental groups say it is inadequate. Lauren Waterworth is one of the lawyers representing the intervenors, which include Kentuckians for the Commonwealth and Appalachian Voices. She says the groups are pleased with the ruling.
“We are seeing this as a victory for all citizens of Kentucky and the court’s decision just affirms the right of citizens to participate in state court enforcement actions.”
Now the case goes back to Franklin County Circuit Court for a decision.
