Environment

in committee · New York · Senate May 14, 2026

S 10328: Requires the use of reclaimed asphalt pavement

This bill mandates that at least 30% of reclaimed asphalt pavement be used in most highway construction projects across New York State, with a lower requirement of 10% for heavy-duty mixes. It directly affects state transportation departments, private contractors, and asphalt plant operators by requiring them to incorporate recycled materials into new paving projects. The legislation establishes specific definitions for asphalt types and allows for waivers if there is not enough recycled material available, while also directing officials to create rules that encourage even higher usage rates in the future.

Topics ✓ EnvironmentSupports EnvironmentMandating reclaimed asphalt reduces waste and conserves natural resources by recycling materials.90% confidence ✓ TransportationSupports TransportationBill mandates use of reclaimed asphalt, improving infrastructure sustainability and resource efficiency.95% confidence

Sub-Topics Recycling Roads & Highways

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passed · New York · Assembly Apr 22, 2026

K 1197: Commemorating April 24, 2026, as Arbor Day in the State of New York

This bill designates Friday, April 24, 2026, as Arbor Day in New York State to honor the tradition of tree planting and environmental stewardship. The resolution acknowledges the historical origins of Arbor Day, which began in Nebraska in 1872, and highlights the ecological benefits of trees, such as air purification, erosion control, and energy savings. By pausing legislative proceedings on this date, the assembly formally recognizes the efforts of citizens who plant and maintain trees in their communities.

Topics ✓ EnvironmentSupports EnvironmentBill designates Arbor Day to honor tree planting and environmental stewardship, acknowledging ecological benefits like air purification and erosion control.85% confidence

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in committee · New York · Assembly May 15, 2026

A 11407: Provides that priority shall be given to certain sites when developing renewable energy generating projects

This bill updates the Public Authorities Law to give priority to specific underutilized locations, such as brownfields, parking lots, and former industrial sites, when planning new renewable energy projects. It also formally defines "agrivoltaics" as a dual-use system where solar panels are installed alongside agricultural activities like crop farming or livestock grazing to maximize land efficiency. By establishing these definitions and site preferences, the legislation aims to streamline the development of solar energy while protecting existing farming operations and repurposing vacant urban spaces.

Topics ✓ EnergySupports EnergyBill prioritizes renewable energy sites and defines agrivoltaics to advance clean energy development.95% confidence ✓ EnvironmentSupports EnvironmentBill promotes renewable energy and agrivoltaics to advance clean energy and land conservation.90% confidence

Sub-Topics Renewable Energy Solar Public Lands

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in committee · New York · Senate May 28, 2026

J 2264: Commemorating the 3rd Annual Marine Park Alliance Garden of Giving Gala on May 20, 2026, and recognizing the organization's dedication to environmental stewardship and community enhancement

This Senate resolution formally recognizes the Marine Park Alliance for its work in preserving Brooklyn's Marine Park and supporting community initiatives. The bill commemorates the organization's upcoming 3rd Annual Garden of Giving Gala on May 20, 2026, and honors its leadership and volunteers for their environmental and civic contributions. It does not change any laws or policies but serves as an official expression of appreciation from the state legislature.

Topics ✓ EnvironmentSupports EnvironmentBill recognizes an organization dedicated to environmental stewardship and preserving natural resources, indicating support for conservation efforts.85% confidence

Sub-Topics Parks & Recreation

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passed · New York · Senate May 27, 2026

J 2159: Honoring Jamie Banks upon the occasion of her designation for special recognition by Residents Forward on June 4, 2026

This bill is a Senate resolution that formally honors Jamie Banks, a fashion entrepreneur and longtime resident of Port Washington. It recognizes her for receiving special recognition from the local organization Residents Forward on June 4, 2026, and commends her leadership in founding the sustainable swimwear brand Change of Scenery. The resolution acknowledges her business's commitment to environmental responsibility and its support for community preservation efforts. The Legislative Body will pause its proceedings to offer its highest commendation to Banks and send a copy of the resolution to her.

Topics ✓ EnvironmentSupports EnvironmentBill honors a fashion entrepreneur for founding a sustainable swimwear brand committed to environmental responsibility and community preservation.75% confidence

Sub-Topics Conservation

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in committee · New York · Assembly May 29, 2026

A 11369: Enacts the "extended producer responsibility for artificial turf act of 2026"

This bill establishes an "Extended Producer Responsibility" program for artificial turf, requiring manufacturers and importers to manage the collection and disposal of discarded products within the state. To comply, producers must submit a plan to the state department outlining how they will fund and implement collection sites, which can be permanent locations or mobile units that accept all types of turf regardless of brand. The law defines key terms such as "producer" and "recycling" to ensure that companies selling artificial turf are financially responsible for its end-of-life management through reuse, recycling, or proper disposal rather than relying solely on consumers or taxpayers.

Topics ✓ EnvironmentSupports EnvironmentBill establishes Extended Producer Responsibility for artificial turf, mandating manufacturers manage collection and disposal to reduce waste and pollution.90% confidence

Sub-Topics Recycling

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passed · New York · Assembly May 7, 2026

K 1294: Memorializing Governor Kathy Hochul to proclaim May 3-9, 2026, as Compost Awareness Week in the State of New York

This bill asks Governor Kathy Hochul to officially declare May 3-9, 2026, as Compost Awareness Week in New York. The resolution highlights the benefits of composting, such as reducing waste in landfills, lowering greenhouse gas emissions, and improving soil health. It serves as a public education initiative to encourage communities and organizations to learn more about composting practices. The bill does not create new laws or funding but instead promotes awareness of an existing international observance.

Topics ✓ EnvironmentSupports EnvironmentBill promotes composting to reduce landfill waste and greenhouse gas emissions, directly supporting environmental protection goals.80% confidence

Sub-Topics Climate Change

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in committee · New York · Assembly May 11, 2026

A 11303: Requires publicly funded ferries to be zero-emission and directs NYSERDA to conduct a feasibility study related to transitioning certain workboats to be zero-emission

Requires all ferries purchased by or for the state or any agency or public authority thereof, in any fiscal year which commences on or after April 1, 2028, produce zero emissions; directs NYSERDA to conduct a feasibility study related to transitioning certain workboats to be zero-emission; defines terms.

Topics ✓ EnergySupports EnergyBill mandates zero-emission ferries and funds a feasibility study for workboats, directly advancing clean energy and reducing fossil fuel dependence.95% confidence ✓ EnvironmentSupports EnvironmentBill mandates zero-emission ferries and studies workboat transitions, directly reducing pollution and advancing environmental protection.95% confidence ✓ TransportationSupports TransportationBill mandates zero-emission ferries and studies workboat transitions, promoting sustainable transportation infrastructure.95% confidence

Sub-Topics Electric Vehicles Electric Vehicles

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in committee · New York · Senate Apr 2, 2026

S 9688: Provides for the regulation by the department of environmental conservation of business transaction paper containing bisphenol A

This bill prohibits the distribution and use of paper containing bisphenol A for recording business and banking transactions, such as receipts and credit card records. It directly affects paper manufacturers, financial institutions, and any entities involved in business transactions by banning the production and use of this specific type of paper. The legislation requires manufacturers to replace bisphenol A with the least toxic alternative available, which must be certified by the Department of Environmental Conservation as safe and free from known carcinogens or other harmful toxins. Additionally, the bill establishes an independent advisory committee of scientists to guide the department in identifying safe chemical substitutes and updating safety standards annually.

Topics ✓ EnvironmentSupports EnvironmentBill bans BPA in paper and mandates least toxic alternatives, directly reducing chemical pollution and protecting the environment.90% confidence

Sub-Topics Conservation Recycling

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passed · New York · Senate Apr 21, 2026

J 1924: Commemorating the Finger Lakes' community's celebration of Lake Friendly Living in May 2026

This Senate Resolution formally recognizes and honors the Finger Lakes community's upcoming celebration of Lake Friendly Living in May 2026. The measure acknowledges the efforts of the Lake Friendly Living Coalition and other organizations working to protect the region's water quality and natural environment. By passing this resolution, the legislative body pauses its proceedings to express appreciation for these conservation efforts and sends a copy of the document to the coalition. The bill does not create new laws or funding but serves as a symbolic gesture to highlight the importance of watershed preservation in Central New York.

Topics ✓ EnvironmentSupports EnvironmentBill honors a coalition dedicated to protecting water quality and the natural environment, signaling legislative appreciation for conservation efforts.75% confidence

Sub-Topics Conservation Water Quality

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