Bill > S04377

This bill aims to prevent the Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA) from using cleaning materials or chemicals that could cause or worsen asthma. The proposed legislation is based on extensive research highlighting the growing prevalence of occupational asthma, particularly among workers and frequent public transportation users. The bill 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. Specifically, the MTA would be prohibited from using any cleaning products on the commissioner's list for any purpose, including facility and equipment maintenance. The legislative intent emphasizes the disproportionate impact of asthma on low-income and minority populations, and notes that workplace chemical exposures can cause immediate respiratory symptoms, especially for workers with pre-existing respiratory conditions. The bill would take effect 180 days after becoming law, giving the MTA time to adjust its cleaning protocols and replace potentially harmful chemicals with safer alternatives.

Transportation and Infrastructure

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/S4377