Bill > S00600

This bill amends existing municipal laws to require members of county planning boards, city planning boards, city and town zoning boards of appeals, town planning boards, and village planning boards and zoning boards of appeals to complete five hours of annual training, with at least one hour specifically dedicated to environmentally conscious planning. The environmentally conscious planning training must cover topics such as the Climate Leadership and Community Protection Act, grant and funding opportunities, farmland and natural resource conservation, climate justice, environmentally conscious site design, building material techniques, water mitigation, and energy systems best practices. Previously, board members were only required to complete four hours of training. The training can be provided through various formats including electronic media, video, distance learning, and traditional classroom instruction, and can be offered by entities like municipal planning offices, state agencies, colleges, and municipal associations. The bill aims to enhance the environmental awareness and knowledge of local planning and zoning board members, helping them make more informed decisions that consider environmental sustainability and climate goals. The changes will take effect on the first day of January following the bill's enactment.

Government Affairs

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/S600