Struggling NYers Demand Gov. Hochul Pass NY HEAT Act As ANOTHER Heat Wave Slams State

Governor continues to offer nothing more than thoughts and prayers to NYers who can't afford to stay cool in their own homes amid series of brutal heat waves; Group will demand Gov. take meaningful action to pass NY HEAT Act, which would fight climate change and protect families from unaffordable energy bills

NEW YORK, NY (07/11/2024) (readMedia)-- TODAY, as New Yorkers continue to seek refuge from yet another heat wave, impacted residents and advocates will gather outside the Brooklyn Heights Public Library - a public cooling center - to demand Governor Hochul address our climate needs and pass the NY HEAT Act. Despite increasingly common extreme weather hurting families statewide, Governor Hochul has refused to take substantive action to fight climate change or help families who can't afford to stay cool in their homes.

According to a recent report from the New York City Health Department, an estimated 350 residents die prematurely every year due to extreme heat. The report finds that death rates are higher among poorer neighborhoods that are disproportionately impacted by extreme weather, with the highest age-adjusted death rates in Brooklyn. The frequency, length, and severity of heat waves are all expected to increase as fossil-fueled climate change slams New York City.

Last week, the New York State Public Service Commission issued a report that revealed New York is expected to miss its 2030 climate goals - making the need for action from our elected officials even more urgent. Attendees at the press conference will demand the Governor work to pass the NY HEAT Act, which lawmakers were close to passing before she effectively derailed negotiations during the final days of the 2024 legislative session. The popular bill is fundamental in implementing the state's Climate Action Plan, allowing utilities to provide cheaper and clean heating and cooling alternatives - a win-win for the environment and New Yorkers struggling to afford their energy costs.

This event will be livestreamed.

WHEN: Thursday, July 11th at 11:00am.

WHERE: Brooklyn Heights Public Library, 286 Cadman Plz W, Brooklyn, NY 11201

WHO: Assemblymember Jo Anne Simon, New York residents, members from WE ACT for Environmental Justice, Earthjustice, Alliance for a Green Economy (AGREE), Food & Water Watch, Sane Energy Project, Climate Changemakers, Citizens Climate Lobby BK, 350 BK, Fridays for Future NYC, and others. [LIST IN FORMATION].

WHAT: New York residents and advocates will join for a press conference amid a series of brutal heat waves to demand Governor Hochul finally address our climate needs and pass the NY HEAT Act.