Statement from Rob Moore re: the Senate Majority Coalition

Attributable to Rob Moore, Executive Director of Environmental Advocates of New York

ALBANY, NY (12/05/2012)(readMedia)-- "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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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.

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