Latest News: State Wide

The legislature recently passed a bill that creates a second tier of supports for legacy renewable energy such as hydropower. It will help meet the goals of the Climate Leadership and Community Protection Act by supporting existing renewable energy sources.

Legislation geared towards PFAS and 1,4 Dioxane contamination passed with near-unanimous support in both chambers of the State Legislature late last month positioning New York as a national leader in addressing both contaminants.

The Environmental Protection Agency recently finalized its repeal of the Clean Power Plan. It will be replaced by the Affordable Clean Energy (ACE) rule, a less stringent regulation.

Up to $11,000,000 in funds is available to localities through the state's Climate Smart Communities Grant Program by July 26th to deal with existing environmental challenges like reducing food waste.

Last month, NYLCV's Johnluca Fenton participated in the National LCV Young Leaders Program in Washington, DC. They had the opportunity to hear from current Capitol Hill lobbyists as well as leading congressional representatives on an array of topics relating to congressional environmental action.

The 2019 legislative session came to a close with historic gains for the environment. The State Senate and Assembly passed the most aggressive climate legislation in the country as well as other legislative measures, putting New York at the forefront of the fight for environmental protection.

Earlier this month, the New York State Senate unanimously passed S. 4351, which establishes a responsible system for the collection, recycling, and proper disposal of leftover paint products. The companion bill, A. 6373, passed the Assembly on the last day of the legislative session.

Momentum is building to pass climate change legislation as the end of this legislative session approaches this week.