The New York League of Conservation Voters released the following statement regarding the agreement on the State Budget:
Julie Tighe, President of the New York League of Conservation Voters, said, “New York is on a path to a green recovery. This new budget makes it clear that the environment is a priority for New York. A $3 billion Environmental Bond Act will invest in programs that improve water quality, create good-paying green jobs, make our communities more resilient, and reduce emissions. A fully-funded Environmental Protection Fund, a $500 million investment in clean water infrastructure, and capital funding for rebuilding our parks will help New York fight both the climate and economic crisis. Putting renewable energy projects on an equal playing field with other types of energy, and implementing a standardized tax model for these projects, will set New York up to be a nation-leading green energy powerhouse. We are disappointed that the budget agreement did not include extended producer responsibility legislation for packaging to reduce waste or a clean fuels standard to reduce emissions from transportation. NYLCV will continue to advocate for these priorities. We thank Governor Cuomo, Majority Leader Stewart-Cousins, Speaker Heastie, Senator Todd Kaminsky, and Assemblyman Steve Englebright for their leadership and investing in a green future.”