NYLCV applauds Gov. Cuomo on resiliency investments, but address misses opportunity to lay forth even a modest environmental agenda
(NEW YORK) Climate resiliency will play an important role in Gov. Andrew Cuomo’s agenda for 2014, as outlined in today’s State of the State address. But with little mention of any other sustainability initiatives, Gov. Cuomo’s address missed the opportunity to advance the kind of transformative environmental vision that New Yorkers are waiting for.
“For years, New York’s environmental sights have been set too low. Important progress has been made, but it has been incremental. That must change this year,” said New York League of Conservation Voters President Marcia Bystryn. “We applaud Governor Cuomo for prioritizing investments in climate adaptation and resiliency. But with a state budget surplus and the worst of the Great Recession behind us, now is the time to think bigger. We look forward to working with the governor and the Legislature on a robust and comprehensive strategy that will restore New York’s position as an environmental leader.”
Next week – on the first day of the 2014 legislative session – the New York League of Conservation Voters will release its 2014 State Policy Agenda. With more than 60 specific policy recommendations, NYLCV’s agenda seeks transformative action in the areas of climate change, public health, natural resource protection and sustainable economic development.
Celebrating its 25th anniversary year, the New York League of Conservation Voters (NYLCV) is a nonpartisan, policy-making and political action organization that works to make environmental protection a top priority with elected officials, decision makers, and voters by evaluating incumbent performance and endorsing and electing environmental leaders to office in New York State.
