Bill > A01226

This bill aims to protect raptors (birds of prey like hawks, falcons, and owls) from injury or death at landfill sites by regulating landfill gas control flares. The bill recognizes that these flares, which burn methane gas, pose a significant risk to birds that use them as perches or fly nearby, often resulting in severe burns or death. To address this issue, the bill requires landfills to install safer and taller perches for raptors and attach spikes to all landfill gas control flares. Additionally, the state's environmental conservation department must work with flare manufacturers to incorporate bird deterrence features into their design. The bill defines a landfill as a solid waste disposal facility where waste is intentionally placed and remains. The new regulations will take effect 180 days after the bill's initial effective date, giving landfill operators time to implement the required safety modifications. This legislation is part of the "raptor protection act" and reflects a legislative intent to mitigate the unintentional harm caused to birds of prey at waste disposal sites.

Agriculture and Natural Resources

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/A1226