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What's the issue?
The Clean Water, Clean Air, and Green Jobs Environmental Bond Act of 2022 (commonly referred to as “the Bond Act”) passed in November 2022. The largest investment in the environment in the history of New York State, the Bond Act provides $4.2 billion for projects that improve public health, increase access to nature, and protect people from the consequences of climate change, like deadly heat and flooding. We now have the opportunity to influence how these funds will be distributed.
What's our vision?
We envision a state with a healthy environment and vibrant communities that are actively preparing for whatever climate change brings our way. We are thrilled that the Bond Act passed and that the state is making such an investment in the land, air, water, and communities of New York. Think zero-emissions school buses, solar panels on schools, cleaner lakes and rivers, and so much more.
What's the status?
Governor Hochul has begun a multi-stop listening tour to let the public know about the funding opportunities available through the Bond Act. Register now for virtual and in-person sessions across the state.
An important component of the Bond Act is that at least 35% of the funds (with a goal of 40%) will benefit “disadvantaged communities.” The State Climate Justice Working Group developed the criteria for determining which communities qualify for the status of “disadvantaged community,” which they released in April 2023. You can view it here.
In May 2023, the state began accepting grant applications for water infrastructure projects. They are currently creating the necessary infrastructure required to administer the many programs the Bond Act will cover. You can attend a listening session to provide input and ask questions about how this program might benefit your community.
Know the lingo
Municipal Bond
An interest-bearing certificate, in this case issued by a state or local government. Investors buy bonds, giving the municipality money to fund projects. When the term of the bond is up, the municipality must pay back the bond with interest.
Climate Change Mitigation
Efforts to make the impact of climate change less severe.
Disadvantaged Communities
Communities that are most impacted by a combination of negative public health effects, environmental pollution, and climate change, and possess certain socioeconomic criteria.
The Climate Leadership and Community Protection Act (Climate Act) required the Climate Justice Working Group (CJWG) to establish criteria to identify disadvantaged communities statewide in New York. You can view the details here.
Infrastructure
Generally speaking, the system of public works of a country, state, or region.
What can you do now?
SIGN UP to attend a virtual or in-person listening session and hear directly from state government officials about what the Bond Act means for you and your community.
Let your elected officials know what kind of projects you would like to see get funded by the Bond Act
GOVERNOR HOCHUL: Email her here, or Tweet at her @GovKathyHochul
STATE SENATOR: Find your Senator here
STATE ASSEMBLY: Find your Assembly member here
VISIT THE STATE’S WEBSITE to get the latest news about the Bond Act.
READ THE BALLOT PROPOSAL FROM 2022 (Don’t worry; it’s not so bad!)
ADD YOUR VOICE! We bring the voices of the Hudson Valley directly to the decision makers and policy makers shaping our future.
