Bill > S01833

This bill establishes the "Harmful Algal Bloom Monitoring and Prevention Act", creating a comprehensive statewide program to address the growing threat of harmful algal blooms (HABs) in New York's waters. The bill requires the development of a centralized data collection and analysis system to monitor, evaluate, prevent, and mitigate HABs, which are toxic growths of algae that can be dangerous to public health, wildlife, and economic activities. The legislation mandates the creation of a public database and website to consolidate research, track HAB outbreaks, and share best practices for prevention. A key component is a new grant program that will provide funding to municipalities, nonprofits, and academic institutions to implement HAB monitoring and mitigation strategies, with a preference for methods that use passive or non-chemical physical controls and have proven success in treating large water bodies. The bill also establishes a dedicated "Harmful Algal Bloom Monitoring and Prevention Fund" to support these efforts, and requires the environmental conservation commissioner to prepare a comprehensive report every five years analyzing HAB data and recommending strategies for improvement, including opportunities for coordination between federal, state, municipal, and non-governmental organizations.

Agriculture and Natural Resources, Budget and Finance

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/S1833