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 original price tag for the proposed Environmental Bond Act, which was originally proposed by then-Gov at $3 billion, has now increased to $4.2 billion. 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. In the final deal were also included measures that would encourage electric school buses and offshore wind projects to the tune of $500 million. The Environmental Protection Fund was also included.
However, Kate Kuera (Deputy Director of Environmental Advocates NY) stated that the spending will not go far enough to meet the needs.
“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. Tens of thousands died in flash floods that struck New York City last year. The water inundated creeks and tributaries.
This November, the final decision on the borrowing plan will be made by the voters.
Assemblyman Kevin Cahill stated that this budget again represents record funds for important environmental programs. These funds are crucial investments in New York’s ability to preserve and safeguard our communities. They also help us maintain our national leadership in addressing climate change, which is affecting us in increasingly extreme weather.