Governor Kathy Hochul has put forward a budget that aims to help New Yorkers cope with the impacts of climate change, but environmentalists feel it lacks strict measures to cut greenhouse gas emissions.
In her proposal, she plans to invest $50 million in programs that assist low- and moderate-income homeowners. These funds are meant for home repairs and updates that can help prevent or recover from flooding. There’s also a new grant program to support nature-based solutions, like improving shorelines.
Hochul has earmarked $500 million for clean water infrastructure projects, along with $125 million over ten years for the Superfund program. Additionally, $400 million is set aside for the Environmental Protection Fund, which covers various projects related to climate change and water protection.
During her state of the state address, Hochul spoke about a significant $1 billion initiative aimed at moving New York towards a zero-emission economy. However, her lengthy budget proposal didn’t mention the “cap and invest” strategy she introduced two years ago. This program would limit emissions and charge polluters fees to fund renewable energy efforts.
At a recent press conference, Hochul mentioned that the $1 billion investment would essentially support clean energy projects as if the cap and invest program were already functioning. But environmental groups warn that without cap and invest, New York might struggle to meet its greenhouse gas reduction targets set by the 2019 climate law.
Julie Tighe, president of the New York League of Conservation Voters, highlighted the urgency of the situation as escalating climate change impacts loom. She expressed concern about a new presidential administration that may undermine the EPA, emphasizing that state actions are crucial now more than ever.
Additionally, the budget does not include the HEAT Act, which would limit heating costs for low-income residents to 6% of their income. The plan also aimed to change a rule that currently requires utilities to provide new gas connections at no cost to property owners near existing gas mains, a rule environmentalists argue makes fossil fuels more appealing over cleaner energy options.
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