Bill > A03026

This bill provides for the disposition of certain fees and penalties collected under the state's environmental conservation law, directing these funds to a new conservation enforcement account within the state conservation fund. Specifically, the bill amends multiple sections of the environmental conservation law to redirect fines, penalties, and other monetary collections from the general fund to this new dedicated account. The conservation enforcement account will be exclusively used to fund environmental law enforcement activities, including salaries for scientists, environmental law enforcement officers, attorneys, administrative support, and other expenses deemed necessary by the commissioner of environmental conservation. The bill requires that these funds supplement, not replace, existing enforcement funding. Additionally, the department must submit an annual expenditure report to legislative leaders detailing the use of these funds. The changes involve numerous technical amendments across various sections of the law, generally increasing penalty amounts and redirecting their collection to the new conservation enforcement account. The bill aims to provide more dedicated and transparent funding for environmental enforcement efforts in New York State.

Agriculture and Natural Resources

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/A3026