For Immediate Release: Dec 05, 2012
Travis Proulx, [email protected] , 518-462-5526 x238

Statement From Rob Moore, Executive Director Of Environmental Advocates Of New York Re: The Senate Majority Coalition

“How will the new Senate Majority Coalition impact the environmental agenda, which takes on a new prominence and importance in the wake of Hurricane Sandy?

The State Senate does not have a good record of environmental leadership in recent years, so the Independent Democratic Conference’s inclusion is unlikely to make a bad situation worse. But will it improve the prospects for environmental legislation?

Earlier today, Governor Cuomo identified climate change and environmental protection efforts as one of the top priorities he urged the Senate to address.

Environmental issues are bipartisan issues. Legislators of all parties and political persuasions have supported a progressive environmental agenda for years. Over the past few years, there are numerous examples of the majority of Senators sponsoring bills, more than enough to pass legislation, only to see leadership bottle these measures up without allowing members to take a vote.

The new Senate Majority Coalition has presented itself as problem-solvers, as leaders who will rise to the challenges facing New York State. These challenges include rising sea levels, increased flooding in coastal areas and along the state’s rivers, and decreasing our contribution to global warming.

If they are serious, the new Senate Majority will find eager partners in the state’s environmental community, the State Assembly, and the Governor. Let’s hope their actions are the equal of their rhetoric.”

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