Bill > A08098

This bill amends the New York Environmental Conservation Law to give the Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) new authority to independently add species to the lists of prohibited and regulated invasive species on an emergency basis. Specifically, the bill allows the DEC to take immediate action to add a species to these lists while awaiting review from the Department of Agriculture and Markets, in consultation with the New York Invasive Species Council. This provision provides the DEC with more flexibility to quickly respond to emerging invasive species threats that could potentially cause significant ecological or economic damage. Invasive species are non-native organisms that can harm local ecosystems, agriculture, or economic interests by outcompeting native species, damaging infrastructure, or spreading disease. The bill's emergency provision enables a more rapid response to such threats, bypassing potentially lengthy standard review processes. The new authority will take effect thirty days after the bill becomes law.

Agriculture and Natural Resources

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/A8098