Bill > A02512

This bill establishes a new Chief Sustainability Officer (CSO) position within New York state government to coordinate climate change mitigation and sustainability efforts across all state agencies. The CSO, who will be appointed by the governor and receive a salary, will have broad responsibilities including reviewing and proposing amendments to agency rules to reduce climate change impacts, coordinating energy and environmental sustainability policies, working with state agencies to implement environmental protection goals, and designing strategies to improve energy efficiency in state facilities. The officer's specific duties include partnering with private businesses and universities, participating in inter-agency working groups, representing New York in national climate alliances, informing state leadership about climate science developments, advising the state Climate Action Council, and serving as the state's coordinator for implementing the Climate Leadership and Community Protection Act. All state agencies will be required to cooperate with the CSO to help fulfill these responsibilities, with the ultimate goal of promoting comprehensive and coordinated climate sustainability efforts across New York state government.

Government Affairs

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/A2512