Relates to enacting the "New York photovoltaic module stewardship and take-back program act"; provides that the department of environmental conservation shall develop guidance for a photovoltaic module stewardship and take-back program to guide manufacturers in preparing and implementing a self-directed program to ensure the convenient, safe, and environmentally sound take-back and recycling of photovoltaic modules and their components and materials; establishes the photovoltaic module recycling account for the purpose of paying all costs of the department of environmental conservation for management and administration of the New York photovoltaic module stewardship and take-back program.
This bill directs Governor Kathy Hochul to officially proclaim April 2026 as Native Plant Month in New York State. The resolution recognizes the environmental benefits of native plants, which support local wildlife and ecosystems. It encourages residents to participate in activities like planting native species and removing invasive plants during the designated month. The bill is a ceremonial measure that does not create new laws or regulations but serves to raise public awareness about native plant conservation.
This bill adds Lake Oscawana and Roaring Brook Lake in Putnam County to the official list of major inland lakes in New York State. The change updates the legal definition of inland waterways by including these two specific lakes in the state's existing list of protected water bodies. This amendment affects state environmental regulations and conservation efforts related to these lakes, ensuring they receive the same protections as other major inland lakes already covered by the law. The bill takes effect immediately upon passage and does not create new restrictions but rather expands the scope of existing waterway protections.
This bill prohibits government incentives for commercial renewable energy projects like solar farms in sensitive environmental areas and on active farmland, with specific exceptions for agrivoltaic systems that combine solar power with agriculture. It removes eligibility for financial assistance, zero emission credits, and tax exemptions for such projects located in critical environmental areas, bird conservation zones, grassland bird centers, and wildlife management areas. The legislation also formally defines agrivoltaics as solar systems that simultaneously produce energy and agricultural products without displacing farming activities, while excluding certain practices like sole reliance on pollinator habitats or sheep grazing. These changes directly affect developers proposing renewable energy projects and government agencies administering agricultural and environmental programs.
This bill asks Governor Kathy Hochul to officially recognize Earth Hour on March 28, 2026, from 8:30pm to 9:30pm in New York State. The resolution encourages residents and businesses to turn off non-essential lights during that hour to raise awareness about climate change and environmental conservation. It does not create new laws or require any specific actions, but rather serves as a symbolic gesture to join global efforts for environmental protection. The measure is a commemorative resolution that directs the governor to acknowledge the event rather than impose any new regulations or obligations.
Provides for a state workforce fuel reduction and conservation program which will develop and assist in implementing strategies to reduce fuel consumption by the state's motor vehicle fleet and to reduce solo trips between work and home by state employees; requires reporting to the governor and legislature.
This bill amends the Environmental Conservation Law to include the marine and coastal district within the official definition of tidal wetlands. The change expands the legal scope to cover areas bordering or beneath tidal waters, such as banks, bogs, salt marshes, swamps, and meadows within that specific district. By updating the definition, the bill ensures these coastal areas are recognized under existing environmental protections. The legislation takes effect immediately upon passage.
Authorizes the use of funds from Peconic Bay region community preservation funds for the acquisition of waterfront conservation easements to maintain and enhance maritime industries and heritage, including for working waterfront, aquaculture, commercial fisheries, recreational fishing and boating businesses.
This bill asks Governor Kathy Hochul to officially declare March 22, 2026, as Water Day in New York State to align with the global observance of World Water Day. The resolution highlights the importance of water for daily activities like drinking, agriculture, and sanitation, while emphasizing the need to protect groundwater and address water scarcity. It does not create new laws or programs but serves as a symbolic gesture to raise awareness about water conservation and access issues. The bill affects only the state's official calendar and does not change any existing policies or require funding.
This bill grants the Department of Environmental Conservation the authority to create and enforce management rules for Atlantic bonito and false albacore fisheries. The department can set regulations such as size limits, catch limits, seasonal closures, and gear restrictions, but must align these rules with existing state laws and federal fishery management plans. The authority applies to fishing activities and remains in effect until December 31, 2029. This change allows the department to better control these specific fish species through targeted conservation measures.
