Public Health News

In late June, we shared that the Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA) was seeking $3.9 billion in emergency aid from Congress. Since then, their fiscal crisis has only worsened.

Harmful algal blooms have been on the rise in bodies of water across New York State—arriving earlier in the year, sticking around later, and blooming more severely. New York State is taking the threat of HABs very seriously and has been working to both better understand the causes of HABs and develop better techniques for combating them.

The State Legislature recently passed several of our priority bills that will improve water quality, protect natural areas, remove toxins from our environment, and encourage clean transportation.

Vice President Joe Biden’s presidential campaign released his Build Back Better climate action plan which aims to fight climate change while supporting, growing, and greening the economy. New Yorkers will benefit from federal support and investment into climate resilient infrastructure, jobs, and environmental justice.

Over 30% of greenhouse gas emissions in New York come from the transportation sector - the most of any sector. In an effort to curb the state’s emissions, address public health issues caused by air pollution, and combat climate change, New York must switch to green transportation.

Last week, Mayor de Blasio and the City Council finalized the City budget, which drastically cuts environmental programs that are needed to combat climate change and fight for climate justice.

Dear Members of New York’s Congressional Delegation, The undersigned organizations thank you for the work you are doing to support