Bill > A03843

This bill amends the New York State Environmental Conservation Law to establish a comprehensive policy of environmental justice and equal treatment for all people. Specifically, the bill adds a new provision declaring that all individuals, regardless of race, culture, national origin, income, gender identity, expression, disability, or community of residence, must be treated equally in the development, implementation, and enforcement of environmental laws, regulations, and policies. The legislation affirms that every New Yorker has a fundamental right to live and work in safe, healthy, and aesthetically pleasing environments. The bill aims to address environmental inequities by ensuring that no group should be disproportionately exposed to pollution or suffer from the cumulative negative impacts of environmental facilities, nor should they be deprived of environmental benefits due to lack of political or economic power. Additionally, the bill updates some gendered language in existing law, replacing "man" with "people" to make the language more inclusive. The changes are designed to promote fairness and protect all communities from environmental harm, regardless of their socioeconomic status or demographic characteristics.

Agriculture and Natural Resources

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/A3843