New York voters are expected to consider a larger bond act in order to strengthen water and sewer systems to withstand increasingly severe weather events.
The initial price tag for the proposed Environmental Bond Act was $3 billion at the time it was proposed by then-Gov. Andrew Cuomo has increased his proposal to $4.2 Billion.
Advocates looking for more ways to limit the impacts of climate change in New York, including the addition of money, were pleased by the measure. The final deal also included measures to encourage electric school buses, 500 million for offshore wind projects, and $400 million for Environmental Protection Fund.
However, Kate Kuera, NY Deputy Director of Environmental Advocates, stated that spending will not be sufficient to meet the need.
“Finally we are disappointed that the budget’s climate investments did not achieve the level of investment required to meet the urgency of climate crisis and jump-start states’ transition from fossil fuels,” she stated.
The bond act was created to improve water and sewer systems susceptible to flooding during storms. Last year, flash floods in New York City killed many people and caused creeks and tributaries to be quickly inundated by water.
The November election will determine the final borrowing plan.
Assemblyman Kevin Cahill stated that this budget again represents record funds for important environmental programs. They are critical investments in New York’s ability preserve and protect communities. They also help us to continue our national leadership in addressing climate changes as they bear down on us in the form increasingly extreme weather.