Bill > S03492

This bill enacts the "Sustainable Affordable Housing and Sprawl Prevention Act," which creates new provisions to streamline environmental reviews for residential housing construction projects. The bill establishes specific thresholds for exempting or limiting environmental review requirements under the State Environmental Quality Review Act (SEQR) for new multiple dwelling developments, with the number of residential units allowed varying based on the population size of the municipality. To qualify for exemption or limited review, housing projects must meet several conditions, including being located in urban areas, built on previously disturbed land, classified as affordable housing, not situated in flood-prone or environmentally sensitive areas, and meeting specific environmental certification standards like LEED or Passive House. The bill also requires developers to complete environmental site assessments, obtain certifications from qualified professionals, and ensure the project does not disproportionately impact disadvantaged communities. Additionally, the bill limits the scope of environmental reviews, excluding considerations like neighborhood character or school system impacts, and provides a process for local permitting authorities to review and approve these housing developments. The legislation aims to expedite housing development while maintaining basic environmental protections and promoting sustainable, affordable housing construction.

Agriculture and Natural Resources, Housing and Urban Affairs

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/S3492