While the State Senate has wrapped up for the 2023 Legislative Session, the Assembly will return in the coming weeks to complete unfinished business. We are pleased to report that thus
far the following NYLCV-priority bills passed both the State Senate and Assembly, demonstrating a shared commitment to producing renewable energy faster, advancing public health, promoting transparency, expanding EV charging on highways, and preserving our delicate ecosystems.
- The Lead Pipes Right to Know Act
- Community Right to Know Act
- Class C Streams
- Geothermal Boreholes Exemptions
- Highway and Depot Charging Plan
- Birds and Bees Protection Act
We thank the sponsors of these bills–Senators Harckham, Hoylman-Sigal, Rivera, Kennedy, and Assemblymembers Glick, Woerner, and Paulin–as well as Senate Leader Andrea Stewart-Cousins and Assembly Speaker Carl Heastie for their support in advancing these critical initiatives. We look forward to working with Governor Hochul and the legislature to ensure these bills become law.
Additionally, the following NYLCV-priority bills were passed by the State Senate, and while they have not yet been voted on by the Assembly, we will continue to advocate for their passage until the session concludes:
- Clean Fuel Standard
- NY HEAT Act
- Just Energy Transition Act
- EV Charging in Public Lots bill
- NY Wildlife Crossing Act
- NYS Rechargeable Battery Recycling Law
- Ride Clean Rebate
- Removing PFAS in Menstrual Care Products
Big news on environmental policy, however, was not limited to the state capital last week. Thursday marked a significant milestone in New York City’s journey towards a cleaner and more sustainable future with the New York City Council passing a comprehensive Zero Waste package.
For years, Zero Waste has been a top priority for the League, and we firmly believe that establishing composting and recycling programs is essential in combating climate change and that codifying our shared goal of a zero waste city by 2030 is critical to ensuring these efforts succeed.
By mandating residential curbside composting–an NYLCV Scorecard Bill–we can expand upon and solidify the progress that has been made under the program Mayor Adams and Commissioner Tisch announced earlier this year, taking a critical step towards reducing emissions, improving our quality of life, and rectifying environmental injustices.
Add to that provisions for Zero Waste reporting, community recycling centers, and organic waste drop-off sites in each community district, and you have a legislative package that empowers each community and every resident to fully participate in waste reduction efforts and contribute to building a more sustainable New York City.
We thank Councilmembers Sandy Nurse and Shahana Hanif for their tireless efforts in advancing this legislation. We also thank Councilmember Keith Powers for championing this package and Council Speaker Adrienne Adams for bringing it to the floor.
In Albany, New York City, and in municipalities across the state, the New York League of Conservation Voters will continue to advocate for strong environmental policies.
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Whether it is tackling waste in New York City or our recent victories in Albany, we want to thank you for being part of this work and taking action in support of this legislation. Together, we sent thousands of messages to our legislators this session, letting them know that we want clean water, clean air, and a healthy environment for our children.
To help us continue this work advocating for our shared values, we hope you will consider making a gift to NYLCV today. For $100, $250, or $500 dollars, your contribution of any amount will provide important support for our policy team as we keep up the fight for our priorities. NYLCV is one of the only statewide environmental organizations that participates in the whole political process – from endorsing candidates to advocating for bills to scoring legislators on how they vote. Your gift today directly supports this work and ensures a healthy future for New York. Thank you for joining us!