Bill > S01069

This bill amends the New York State Environmental Conservation Law to prohibit the leasing of state forests, reforestation areas, wildlife management areas, and unique areas for gas and oil production. Specifically, the bill modifies existing language to explicitly exclude these types of state-owned lands from potential gas and oil exploration, development, and production activities. Previously, the law allowed such activities on state-owned lands with some exceptions, but this bill will now prevent gas and oil operations in these specified natural areas. The bill adds state forests, reforestation areas, wildlife management areas, and unique areas to the list of locations where gas and oil exploration and production are prohibited, alongside existing exceptions like state park lands and certain marine and coastal districts. The legislation is designed to protect these environmentally sensitive areas from potential industrial development and preserve their natural characteristics. The bill will take effect immediately upon passage.

Agriculture and Natural Resources

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/S1069