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 New York State’s history, 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 state is making such a big investment in New York’s land, air, water, and communities. Think zero-emissions school buses, solar panels on schools, cleaner lakes and rivers, and more.
What's the status?
By November 2024, the state had distributed more than 10 percent of the total Bond Act funding. The first round of funding was awarded in December 2023, with $481 million in grants to 156 projects across New York State, including $309 million made available to disadvantaged communities. Read the 2024 Annual Report to learn more about how this funding was allocated. Disadvantaged communities will receive at least 35 percent of the benefits of Bond Act funding, with a goal of 40 percent. Discover the latest news and programs here.
What can you do now?
Want to learn more about how Environmental Bond Act funds are being spent, or better understand what kinds of groups or organizations can apply for funding? VISIT THE STATE’S WEBSITE and let our political leaders know what kind of projects you would like to see get funded by the Bond Act.
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.

STAY INFORMED
What can you do now?

VISIT THE STATE’S WEBSITE to better understand what kinds of groups or organizations can apply for funding and get the latest news about the Bond Act.

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