Gov Paterson Orders NYS Dept of Environmental Conservation to Cut Staff to Lowest Levels Since the 1980's

ALBANY, NY (09/29/2010)(readMedia)-- In response to Governor David Paterson's recent order that the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) lay off 209 employees, Environmental Advocates of New York is calling on the Governor to reconsider. Additional cuts to the already beleaguered agency will dramatically cut the DEC's ability to respond to serious environmental hazards, not to mention critical routine functions such as monitoring air and water pollution.

"These staff cuts must make DEC Commissioner Pete Grannis feel like he's got to clean up New York's toxic chemical spills armed with a toothbrush and a garden hose," said Alison Jenkins, Fiscal Policy Program Director, Environmental Advocates of New York. "Under the guise of fiscal responsibility, Governor Paterson is undoing years of progress on environmental protection in New York, which is ironic given that the agency is celebrating its 40th anniversary this year."

The layoffs, which should be announced later this week, come after the agency approved 260 employees for the early retirement incentive. In 2007-08, the DEC had 3,775 staff. The target for the end of the year is 2,926 staff, a decrease of 849 staff or 22 percent. These are the lowest staff levels since the 1980's, despite an increase in the agency's responsibilities.

The agency is responsible for providing oversight for air and water quality, open space, forests, wetlands, gas and oil drilling, hazardous waste, hunting and fishing, invasive species eradication, dam safety, and many other programs. The wellbeing of all New Yorkers depends on the DEC to enforce existing environmental laws.

The layoffs are in addition to other budget cuts for non-personal services such as travel and equipment for inspections and testing for chemicals such as pesticides. With resources for these critical activities cut in half since the 2007-08 budget year, the agency can only afford to respond to 150 oil spills rather than the annual average of 350.

-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.