Bill > S05982

This bill amends the environmental conservation law to give the Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) new emergency authority to independently add species to the lists of prohibited and regulated invasive species. Specifically, the bill allows the DEC to unilaterally update these lists on an emergency basis, with the requirement that the Department of Agriculture and Markets will subsequently review the additions in consultation with the New York invasive species council. Invasive species are non-native organisms that can cause economic or environmental harm when introduced to a new ecosystem. The emergency provision allows the DEC to quickly respond to emerging threats from potentially harmful species without going through a lengthy traditional regulatory process. The bill will take effect 30 days after becoming law, providing an expedited mechanism for managing potentially dangerous invasive species that could threaten New York's agriculture, environment, or biodiversity. This change aims to enhance the state's ability to rapidly address new invasive species risks by streamlining the administrative process for adding species to regulated lists.

Agriculture and Natural Resources

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/S5982