Bill > A04359

This bill aims to prohibit the Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA) from using cleaning materials or chemicals that could cause or worsen asthma, based on growing concerns about occupational asthma and its health impacts. The legislation requires the New York State Commissioner of Health to create and provide a list of cleaning materials and chemicals that may trigger or exacerbate asthma symptoms to the MTA chairman. The bill's intent is rooted in public health data, including statistics from the American Lung Association and Centers for Disease Control (CDC) that show increasing asthma rates, particularly among females and in low-income, minority communities who frequently use public transportation. The bill specifically highlights that certain chemical irritants like ammonia and chlorine can provoke immediate respiratory symptoms, especially for workers or individuals with pre-existing respiratory conditions. Once the bill becomes law, the MTA will be legally required to avoid using any cleaning substances identified by the health commissioner as potential asthma triggers, with the law taking effect 180 days after its passage.

Government Affairs

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/A4359