West Virginia and nearly two dozen other states are suing to block a New York climate law that requires fossil fuel companies to pay $75 billion over 25 years to mitigate damage from future climate disasters in the state, arguing that the measure is unconstitutional and creates a “slippery slope” for corporations.

West Virginia's attorney general said on Thursday he has sued New York state over a new law requiring fossil fuel companies to contribute $75 billion over 25 years into a state fund that will pay for damage caused by climate change.