Bill > S01706

This bill requires all New York state agencies and offices to stop purchasing single-use plastic water bottles (defined as sealed rigid plastic bottles of 21 fluid ounces or less), with some exceptions for emergencies, health and safety needs, existing contracts, or situations where no practical alternative exists. The bill authorizes the commissioner of general services to contract for installing water bottle filling stations in state buildings, including the Capitol and Empire State Plaza, which can be added to existing water fountains or installed separately. Each state agency must submit a report within one year detailing their efforts to halt spending on single-use plastic water bottles, reduce their sale on state property, and document the number of water bottle filling stations installed. The legislation is rooted in concerns about climate change, fossil fuel consumption in plastic production, and environmental pollution, with statistics noting Americans discard about 2.5 million plastic bottles every hour. While the bill mandates actions for state agencies, quasi-public authorities are merely encouraged to adopt similar plans. The law will take effect one year after becoming law and applies to purchases from that point forward, excluding certain institutions like SUNY, CUNY, and some residential care facilities.

Budget and Finance

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/S1706