Bill > A08901

This bill requires the community gardens task force to assess all community gardens located on state-owned land to help them become designated as critical environmental areas (CEAs). A CEA is a designation given to certain areas that have significant environmental importance. The task force must consult with garden members and the department of environmental conservation to determine if each garden meets the criteria for CEA designation, which are outlined in a specific section of the state's codes, rules, and regulations. The task force will then provide a report on its findings to the governor and legislature by January 1, 2027, and complete the assessment by January 1, 2028, with ongoing assessments for new gardens every five years thereafter. If a garden is found to meet the CEA requirements, the task force will recommend to the relevant state or local agency that it be officially designated as a CEA.

Agriculture and Natural Resources, Budget and Finance

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/A8901