New Yorkers for Clean Water and Jobs is a broad coalition formed to demonstrate the vast support for New York environmental funding and programs that protect clean water and air, create jobs, and address the climate crisis.
Environmental Priorities for the 2024 New York State Budget
At least $400 million for the Environmental Protection Fund
EPF programs protect clean water; support zoos, aquaria, and botanical gardens; invest in environmental justice organizations; conserve land and water including local farms and forests; create new parks and trails; fund community recycling; prevent pollution; and so much more. EPF programs support hundreds of thousands of jobs and EFP-supported industries generate $40 billion in economic activity every year. Many EPF programs have years-long waiting lists for funding.
We ask that the Governor and State Legislature appropriate at least $400 million to the Environmental Protection Fund and continue to work towards increasing the appropriation to $500 million sustained annually over the long term.
$600 million for the Clean Water Infrastructure Act with $4 Billion for Clean Water Over Five Years
New York’s water and wastewater infrastructure is old and failing. It can’t keep up with current needs. Infrastructure failures put public health and safety at risk. At least $75 billion is needed to modernize New York’s outdated water systems. Continued investments in the Clean Water Infrastructure Act is critical to addressing these needs and protecting New Yorkers in every corner of the state.
We ask that you invest at least $600 million in the Clean Water Infrastructure Act and announce a new five-year commitment of $4 billion for clean water.
$250 Million in Capital Funding for New York State Parks
2024 marks the centennial celebration of New York’s incredible state park system. For 100 years, residents and visitors alike have flocked to New York State Parks to connect to the great outdoors. Since the pandemic began, visitation rates have skyrocketed. Further investment in needed to maintain and expand the benefits of our public lands. Every dollar invested in state parks generates $5 in economic activity. Local construction jobs associated with park development have been a economic lifeline for many communities.
We ask that you invest at least $250 million in State Parks Capital and announce a new goal as part of the centennial celebration to sustain this level of investment annually for the next decade.
At Least $100 Million for Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) Capital Projects
Annual capital appropriations to the Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) enable critical projects, including the “Adventure New York” program, aimed at creating new recreational opportunities and infrastructure to support the record visitation our public lands are now experiencing. These projects project natural resources, enhance visitor safety and enjoyment, and create new access to the outdoors in all regions of the state.
We ask that you invest at $100 million capital funds for the Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC).
Implement the $4.2 billion Clean Water, Clean Air, and Green Jobs Environmental Bond Act
Our organizations were proud to support and work towards the overwhelming passage of the Environmental Bond Act in the 2022 General Election. This funding, when combined with other programs including those outlined above, are better able to address the significant needs that exist in communities throughout the state. The Bond Act is necessary and additive funding, not a substitute for existing programs. We urge the Governor and State Legislature to maintain other sources of environmental funding.