Relates to permits and financial security for reclamation for salt mining beneath a lake; requires such permits to be subject to environmental quality review procedures; requires financial security to cover any damages directly or indirectly resulting from salt mining activities beneath a lake, including, but not limited to, those resulting from collapse or water contamination.
Enacts the tropical rainforest economic & environmental sustainability act requiring that companies contracting with the state do not contribute to tropical forest degradation or deforestation directly or through their supply chains; establishes the supply chain transparency assistance program to assist small and medium-sized businesses and minority and women-owned businesses in achieving compliant supply chains.
This bill extends the maximum lease term for zero-emission school buses from 5 to 12 years, allowing school districts to secure long-term agreements without annual voter approval for these specific vehicles. It directly affects school districts purchasing or leasing zero-emission buses by permitting longer contracts (up to 12 years) compared to standard school buses (max 5 years). The key change adjusts budgeting rules so districts using 12-year leases for zero-emission buses must calculate related costs over the full lease period for funding purposes. The bill does not alter lease terms for conventional buses or require new voter approvals for standard bus leases.
Directs the New York state energy research and development authority to establish a ride clean rebate program for electric assist bicycles and electric scooters; defines terms; provides a fifty percent rebate for eligible purchases.
S 6728, the "Great Swamp Protection Act," establishes a legal framework to protect the 6,000-acre Great Swamp wetland ecosystem in Dutchess and Putnam counties. It creates a 13-member commission (with state, county, and local representatives) to develop a land use and management plan for the area, coordinating state, county, and federal efforts. The bill designates specific lands as a "Great Swamp preserve" to safeguard wetlands, critical watersheds, and habitats for endangered species, while ensuring existing agricultural, recreational, and tourism activities continue under the plan. It directly affects landowners, local governments, and conservation agencies managing the region’s natural resources.
This bill adds a new classification for "clean environment and energy technologies" to industrial definitions. It specifically covers pollution reduction methods, renewable energy generation/storage, and energy efficiency systems like smart grids and automated energy control technology. Businesses developing these technologies will be directly affected, as the bill formally defines which innovations qualify under this new category. The legislation focuses on creating clear standards for emerging clean tech sectors without imposing new regulations or funding.
Aligns utility regulation with state climate justice and emission reduction targets; provides for a statewide affordable gas transition plan and utility home energy affordable transition programs; repeals provisions relating to continuation of gas service; repeals provisions relating to the sale of indigenous natural gas for generation of electricity.
Directs the department of environmental conservation to establish a perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances removal treatment installation grant program, providing a one-time grant to private well users for the installation of PFAS treatment or service connection to a public water system; directs the department of environmental conservation to establish a perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances removal treatment maintenance rebate program, providing a rebate to private well users for the maintenance of PFAS treatment equipment.
S 1069 prohibits the leasing of state-owned forests, reforestation areas, wildlife management areas, and unique natural areas for gas and oil production. The bill amends environmental conservation law to specifically ban these leases, protecting these lands from energy extraction. It directly affects state land management decisions and energy companies seeking to drill on these protected properties. The law takes immediate effect upon enactment.
Directs the commissioner of agriculture and markets, acting by and through the department of economic development, in cooperation with the department of environmental conservation, to establish a New York native plants designation, and offer seals or logos identifying native plants as grown in New York state and certified for their quality, for product labeling, advertising, and displays.