Governor Vetoes EPF Bill, Must Include Support in Upcoming Budget Proposal

ALBANY, NY (12/18/2012)(readMedia)-- The following statement is released by Environmental Advocates of New York:

"Environmental Advocates of New York is disappointed by the Governor's veto of a bill to increase state support of the Environmental Protection Fund (EPF). We certainly hope the Governor will announce a renewed commitment to environmental programs, including the EPF, in his Executive Budget.

The Governor's veto is largely made on philosophical grounds, but does illustrate a disconnect that sometimes exists between his public statements and his subsequent actions.

In November, the Governor stated his commitment to making our state better prepared for the storms, rising sea levels and other disruptions that our changing climate has made the "new normal." The EPF is a critical source of funding to support the very activities the Governor alluded to in his November 13th Daily News editorial.

And just two weeks ago, Governor Cuomo included environmental protection as part of his litmus test for working with the state legislature. Unfortunately, with the veto of legislation to expand the EPF, it was not the state legislature that failed his litmus test.

The EPF puts people to work keeping our communities safe. It is disappointing that the Governor would veto this bill without offering a substantive alternative. If the administration is serious about fighting climate change, protecting communities and making our state more resilient and sustainable, then it's time for the Governor to demonstrate that commitment.

We look forward to learning about Governor Cuomo's environmental agenda and seeing how well his public statements are reflected in his budget proposal in January."

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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. The tax-exempt 501 (c) (3) nonprofit organization is also the New York State affiliate of the National Wildlife Federation. Visit www.eany.org for more information.