Environmental Watchdog Applauds New York Leaders for Safeguarding Green Funds in State Budget

ALBANY, NY (03/31/2011)(readMedia)-- Governor Cuomo and the New York State Legislature recently reached an agreement on the budget for State Fiscal Year 2011-12. By holding steady the state's Environmental Protection Fund at $134 million and maintaining staff at the Department of Environmental Conservation and the Office of Parks, Recreation & Historic Preservation, New York's leaders signaled their recognition that responsible investments in the health of our shared environment will reap enormous dividends in terms of healthy air, safe drinking water, and overall quality of life. State leaders also acted wisely to safeguard New York's investments in a cleaner energy future.

Environmental Advocates of New York thanks Governor Cuomo, Assembly Speaker Sheldon Silver, and Senate Majority Leader Dean Skelos for their markedly green leadership during this year's budget negotiations. We are particularly grateful to Environmental Conservation Committee Chairs Assemblyman Bob Sweeney and Senator Mark Grisanti for their efforts to keep dedicated environmental resources committed to preventing pollution, creating jobs, revitalizing urban areas, and protecting state parks and lands.

Earlier this year, Environmental Advocates shared concerns about the dire straits of New York's environmental agencies and funds with state leaders. We're pleased that the Governor and State Legislature chose not to balance the state budget on the back of our air, land, and water, as well as public health and safety.

We look forward to a working with Governor Cuomo, the State Senate and Assembly during the remainder of the Legislative Session to advance common-sense policies that will address New York's most pressing environmental challenges.

-30-

Environmental Advocates of New York's mission is to protect our air, land, water and wildlife and the health of all New Yorkers. Based in Albany, we monitor state government, evaluate proposed laws, and champion policies and practices that will ensure the responsible stewardship of our shared environment. We work to support and strengthen the efforts of New York's environmental community and to make our state a national leader. Please visit www.eany.org for more information.