Bill > A05150

This bill establishes a comprehensive statewide program to monitor, prevent, and mitigate harmful algal blooms (HABs) in New York state. HABs are growths of algae in water that can produce toxins harmful to public health, the economy, and ecological systems. The bill creates a statewide data collection and consolidation effort, requiring the environmental conservation commissioner to develop a comprehensive database of existing HAB monitoring data and establish guidelines for data submission from research institutions, organizations, and experts. The legislation mandates the creation of a public website and database within 12 months, which will include geolocation of HAB outbreaks, research findings, and prevention strategies. Additionally, the bill establishes a grant program to fund municipalities, nonprofits, and academic institutions to conduct HAB monitoring and mitigation efforts, with a preference for strategies that use passive or non-chemical physical controls and minimize environmental harm. The bill also creates a dedicated "harmful algal bloom monitoring and prevention fund" to support these initiatives, which can receive state appropriations, grants, and other funding sources. The comprehensive approach aims to develop a coordinated, data-driven strategy to address the complex environmental and health challenges posed by harmful algal blooms across New York's water bodies.

Agriculture and Natural Resources

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/A5150