Counties Laud State Budget That Supports Local Environmental Protection Efforts

This Earth Week, counties are commending Governor Hochul and the State Legislature for including major environmental investments in the SFY 2023 State Budget that will support county efforts to protect local environmental resources, prepare for the effects of a changing climate, and help the state meet its carbon emission goals. 
 
Among the top county environmental priorities included in the recently adopted spending plan are a record investment of $400 million for the Environmental Protection Fund, $500 million in new funding for the Clean Water Infrastructure Act, and a $1.2 billion increase to the Clean Water, Clean Air, and Green Jobs Environmental Bond Act. If approved by voters, the Bond Act will provide counties and municipalities with resources to improve resiliency of infrastructure, reduce flood risk, enhance water quality, protect open space, and mitigate the effects of climate change. 
 

“Counties are proud to be the local leaders of the global effort to protect our environment and confront challenges posed by climate change,” said NYSAC President and Tioga County Chair Martha Sauerbrey. “Through the leadership of Governor Hochul and State Legislature, this year's State Budget makes unprecedented investments in local efforts to fortify our infrastructure, protect natural resources, and reduce carbon emissions.” 
 
“This year's budget includes historic investments in climate change mitigation, habitat restoration, and infrastructure resiliency,” said NYSAC Executive Director Stephen Acquario. “Counties applaud Governor Hochul, Majority Leader Stewart-Cousins, Speaker Heastie, and the State Legislature for coming together to pass a budget that supports local environmental protection and puts the health and wellbeing of New Yorkers first.” 
 
Ulster County Executive Patrick Ryan, who chairs NYSAC's Climate Action Committee said, “Across the state, counties are stepping up and driving climate action to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and protect our environment for future generations. The FY 2023 State Budget will bolster our ability to develop and implement local solutions to the economic, social, and environmental challenges posed by climate change. Ulster County is proud to be a leader in responding to the climate crisis, and we look forward to working with our partners in state government as we continue to build resiliency and create an equitable green economy.” 
 
Counties look forward to working with the Governor and Legislature during the remainder of the 2022 Legislative Session to accomplish other environmental priorities that were not included in the enacted budget, such as establishing an Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) program for packaging and paper and restricting the use of harmful chemicals like PFAS in packaging. 
 
Learn more about county environmental priorities, as well the full budget breakdown, on the NYSAC website here.  
 

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