Long Island Climate Change Symposium

Join us to hear the facts and truth on climate change, its impacts to Long Island, and the costs of inaction. 

Farmingdale, NY - Citizen’s Campaign for the Environment is hosting a free Climate Change Symposium in Babylon. Experts will discuss the latest science on climate change and its impacts to Long Island as well as the costs of climate change to the public.  

We are excited to welcome Dr. Paul Shepson, Dean of The School for Marine and Atmospheric Sciences, Stony Brook University, as our keynote speaker. There will also be a panelist discussion featuring Dr. J Bret Bennington, Professor and Chair of the Dept of Geology, Environment, and Sustainability, Hofstra University. 

The symposium will conclude with a Community Q&A session.

Long Island Climate Change Symposium 

Date: Thursday, April 10

Location: Babylon Town Hall, 200 Sunrise Hwy, Lindenhurst, NY

Time: 9:30am - 12pm 

Registration: https://tinyurl.com/climate-symposium

More than 1.3M New Yorkers at risk if EPA weakens PFAS standards

Administrator Lee Zeldin will decide fate of landmark ‘forever chemicals’ standards

ALBANY, N.Y. – More than 1.3 million New Yorkers could lose critical protections from the toxic “forever chemicals” known as PFAS in their tap water if the Environmental Protection Agency rolls back its historic, science-based PFAS drinking water standards.

That’s the conclusion of a new analysis released today by the Environmental Working Group with Citizens Campaign for the Environment.

The analysis shows that at least 189 New York water systems – primarily serving residents on Long Island – have detected these chemicals above levels set in the landmark drinking water limits for six PFAS. The analysis is based on recent state and federal tests of PFAS in water. 

But these same systems’ PFAS levels are below the cap that New York set in 2020 for PFOA and PFOS, two of the most notorious and well-studied of the large group of forever chemicals.

The future of the federal limits is uncertain. 

On February 7, the U.S. Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia paused a lawsuit brought by water utilities and the chemical industry, giving the Trump administration and the EPA until April 8 to announce its intentions for the PFAS maximum contaminant levels – whether to weaken the standards significantly, continue defending them, ask for more time or scrap them altogether.

The agency finalized the standards in April 2024. They include limits of 4 parts per trillion, or ppt, for PFOA and PFOS, and 10 ppt for GenX, PFHxS, and PFNA. The EPA also set a hazard index of 1 for GenX, PFHxS, PFNA, and PFBS, which is a way to measure risks based on combined exposure. The standards aims to protect public health by reducing exposure to the toxic chemicals and their known serious health harms.

“If the EPA rolls back its PFAS drinking water standards, it would be nothing short of a betrayal of public health,” said David Andrews, Ph.D., EWG’s acting chief science officer. 

“There is no safe level of exposure to PFAS, especially to PFOA and PFOS. Even low doses of these chemicals have been linked to serious health harms. Rolling back federal protections would leave New Yorkers vulnerable to entirely preventable health risks,” he added.

New York’s standard for PFOA and PFOS in drinking water is 10 ppt. Weakening or outright eliminating the federal standards would scrap the 4 ppt safeguard, stripping any community in the state with PFAS of most or all protection from water contaminated up to 10 ppt. New York’s standard does not provide protection from the additional four PFAS covered by the federal rule.

​​“Will Lee Zeldin side with the health and well-being of fellow Long Island residents, or will he side with chemical companies that are seeking to pollute our drinking water and expose the public to toxic cancer-causing chemicals?” askedAdrienne Esposito, the executive director of Citizens Campaign for the Environment.

“I stood with Congressman Zeldin to call for strong federal PFAS drinking water standards. We’re all now counting on EPA Administrator Zeldin to follow through on his word. Every Long Islander, New Yorker and American deserves access to clean drinking water free of toxic forever chemicals that are linked to cancer and other serious health impacts,” she added.

New York water systems at risk

The new joint analysis identifies water systems in New York that have detected PFAS at levels below the state’s current drinking water standards, which are less stringent than the EPA’s limits. They’d receive critical coverage under the EPA’s more protective standards. 

Many more systems that have detected PFAS above New York state’s standard have taken or are taking action to protect their customers. Without a federal standard, these systems would not have to take any action to protect their water under the state limit.

“Eliminating the EPA’s PFAS limits would make drinking water less safe from harmful chemicals while forcing New York families to continue drinking contaminated water,” said Jared Hayes, a senior policy analyst at EWG and co-author of the report.

“Without federal PFAS standards, nearly 200 New York water systems could avoid taking protective actions, even though hazardous forever chemicals are still in their water,” he said.

Multiple locations across New York would lose these essential protections, including Mayville, Carroll Water District and Cherry Creek, in Chautauqua County, along with Countyline Mobile Home Park, in Orleans County. 

“The Defense Department has also said that only in cases where it contaminated the water will it treat the chemicals to the federal standard. So in addition to the numbers our analysis found, many service members and defense communities could also lose protections," said Hayes. 

“Rolling back or weakening the existing standards would endanger lives and undermine years of progress toward cleaner drinking water,” he added.

Health harms

PFAS are known as forever chemicals because once released into the environment they do not break down and they can build up in the body. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has detected PFAS in the blood of 99 percent of Americans, including newborn babies. 

For decades, polluters hid the health harms of PFAS from regulators, workers and neighboring communities. PFAS have been linked to cancer, reproductive harm, immune system damage and other serious health problems, even at low levels. 

“A growing body of peer-reviewed science demonstrates unequivocally that there is no safe level of exposure to toxic PFAS in drinking water,” said Esposito.

“The decision on whether or not to move forward with EPA’s science-based, health-protective drinking water standards will have an impact on the health of New Yorkers and all Americans for decades to come,” she added.

Press Contacts: 

Adrienne Esposito, CCE, 631-384-1378, aesposito@citizenscampaign.org

Brian Smith, CCE, 716-472-4078, bsmith@citizenscampaign.org 

Monica Amarelo, EWG, 202-939-9140, monica@ewg.org

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The Environmental Working Group is a nonprofit, non-partisan organization that empowers people to live healthier lives in a healthier environment. Through research, advocacy and unique education tools, EWG drives consumer choice and civic action. 

Citizens Campaign for the Environment was formed in 1985 by a small group of concerned citizens recognizing the need for public involvement to advance stronger environmental policy. Today, it has grown to a 120,000-member organization with New York offices in Albany, Buffalo, Farmingdale and Syracuse. CCE works to empower the public by providing members with opportunities to participate in the political process and thereby advance a strong environmental agenda.

Ban on PFAS and Toxic Chemicals in Menstrual Products Bill Passes in Both Houses in New York State

Only Governor Hochul’s signature is needed to protect people who menstruate   

For Immediate Release: Wednesday, March 26, 2025

Albany, NY- Today, the JustGreen Partnership is celebrating a mid-point legislative session win with the unanimous passage of the Ban on PFAS and Toxic Chemicals Bill S.1548 (Fernandez) / A1502 (Rosenthal) in the Assembly, following unanimous passage in the Senate in January. Next step is the Governor Hochul‘s desk. Once signed into law by the end of the year, New York will join California, Maine, and Vermont in restricting PFAS in menstrual products, and go beyond other states by restricting other harmful chemicals.

This bill will regulate the sale and distribution of menstrual products (pads, tampons, liners, sponges, etc.) in New York State that contain restricted substances or unsafe chemicals, including PFAS “forever chemicals,” heavy metals like lead and mercury, hormone disrupting parabens, and carcinogens like formaldehyde and toluene. 

As the JustGreen Partnership celebrates the unanimous passage of the bill today, they turn their focus to the Governor, who has long been vocal about her support for women’s reproductive rights, at a time when such rights are under attack federally. When New York State required period product makers to disclose ingredients on product packaging sold in the state under a law passed in 2019, companies responded by adding the labels nationally. This fits a pattern and advocates anticipate safer period products on store shelves from New York to New Mexico. 

“Today’s vote is a historic win for public health, environmental justice, and menstrual equity in New York. With the passage of S.1548/A.1502, we are shifting the burden away from consumers and putting it where it belongs—on manufacturers—to ensure the safety of products used in the most intimate parts of our lives,” said New York State Senator Nathalia Fernandez. “It's a commonsense, science-backed step toward a healthier, more just future. I’m proud to have worked alongside Assemblymember Rosenthal and a broad coalition of advocates to deliver this win for New Yorkers, and I look forward to seeing the Governor sign it into law.”

“Manufacturing giants will no longer be able to sell toxic period products in New York State when my bill takes effect,” said Assemblymember Linda B. Rosenthal (D/WF-Manhattan), Chair of the Assembly Committee on Housing. “For more than a century, women have been inserting untested and unregulated products into the most sensitive and absorbent part of their body. With the passage of my legislation, New York is ensuring that no woman will ever have to face this dangerous indignity again. I am incredibly grateful to Clean+Healthy, especially its Executive Director, Bobbi Wilding, for their unyielding support in getting this much-needed measure over the finish line.”

“We are thrilled that the Assembly has unanimously passed Assemblymember Rosenthal's bill to ban PFAS and other toxic chemicals in period products, after the Senate swiftly unanimously passed Senator Fernandez’s matching bill in January. There's no excuse for period product makers to allow harmful chemicals in their products. Everyone deserves to have access to these intimate products that are free of health-harming chemicals, whether or not they know about chemical hazards, regardless of how much money they have in their pockets, and frankly, whether or not they think this is important." said Bobbi Wilding, Executive Director of Clean+Healthy. "Now, as we see rapid erosion of public health and environmental protections at the federal level, it's more important than ever that New York State enacts these protections. We know that when New York required ingredient labels on period products, it changed packaging information nationally. We expect the same will be true again. Governor Hochul, we look forward to you signing this bill into law without delay!”

“Women and femmes of color are already disproportionately exposed to toxic chemicals in their lived environment, and even more so from beauty products that are marketed towards them. One way to reduce this dangerous exposure is to ban toxic chemicals in period products, which pose a heightened risk given their use in sensitive areas of the body as well as their duration of use. This crucial legislation for menstruators' health will prohibit the use of chemicals such as PFAS, talc, lead, synthetic fragrances and so many more. All of these toxins are closely linked to resulting in cancer, contribute to fertility and reproductive challenges, reduce immune function, and interfere with hormones," said Briana Carbajal, State Legislative Manager at WE ACT for Environmental Justice. "Thank you to Senator Fernandez and Assemblymember Rosenthal for championing the passage of such an exemplary piece of legislation for other states to follow suit.”

“New Yorkers and our communities are inundated by exposure to toxic 'forever chemicals' (like PFAS) each and every day, and in ways that we don't even realize," said Caitlin Ferrante, Conservation Program Manager, Sierra Club Atlantic Chapter. "Ridding our environment of these ubiquitous toxins will improve public health and help to reduce the costs of healthcare and expensive filtration of drinking water. The passage of A.1502/S.1548 will help limit yet another pathway of PFAS and other toxic chemicals exposure, in products used by more than half of the population, in the most intimate areas of their bodies. The Sierra Club is grateful for the leadership shown by Assemblymember Rosenthal and Senator Fernandez in getting this legislation passed in both houses this year, and look forward to Governor Hochul signing the bill into law.”

“Today’s passage of the Safe Menstrual Products Act is a period-defining moment for health and safety.” said Adrienne Esposito, Executive Director, Citizens Campaign for the Environment “Women should not be unnecessarily exposed to PFAS chemicals, formaldehyde, parabens and other toxics when they use these products. This legislation creates a future where menstrual and feminine hygiene products are as safe as they are necessary. CCE commends Assemblymember Rosenthal and Senator Fernandez for their leadership and we look forward to working with them to get this bill signed into law.”

“PFAS are pervasive toxic compounds with major implications for the health of our children and families who are commonly exposed through everyday household products. Menstrual products are particularly concerning sources of exposure as PFAS have been linked to lower birth weights, altered timing of puberty in adolescents, and high blood pressure in pregnancy that can have serious effects during childbirth among other health issues.” Said Charles Moon, MD, Co-Chair of the Public Policy and Advocacy Committee for the NYS Chapter of the American Academy of Pediatrics. “The NYS AAP thanks the Assembly for continued leadership on toxic chemical protections by passing this commonsense legislation and helping New Yorkers live healthier.”

“It is mind-boggling to have to say this, but dangerous 'forever chemicals' have no place in products designed for intimate bodily use," said Kate Donovan, Senior Attorney & Northeast Director of Environmental Health at NRDC (Natural Resources Defense Council). "Bill A1502 / S1548 removes the burden from consumers to try to find less toxic products, and instead requires manufacturers to make products safe. The New York Legislature has finally taken the crucial step to protect New Yorkers that use menstrual products from dangerous chemicals that are known to cause serious health impacts.”

“The business community thanks the New York State legislature for passing this common sense, yet uncommon, legislation,” said Bob Rossi, Executive Director of the New York Sustainable Business Council (NYSBC). “Our businesses and economy depend on a healthy citizenry, which is threatened by PFAS poisoning, especially in products that directly contact our skin. We must push forward, support innovation, and meet the growing consumer demand for safer products—some even produced here in New York. We look to Governor Hochul to sign this bill into law.”

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Diverse Coalition of Environmental Groups, Drinking Water Suppliers, and Wastewater Treatment Operators Join in Albany to Present Plan to Provide Clean and Affordable Water for All New Yorkers

In the face of cuts to clean water programs and critical agency staff at the federal level, the NY Clean Water Coalition calls on NY to step up and increase clean water funding and protections

For immediate release: Tuesday, February 25, 2025

For more information, contact:

Adrienne Esposito, Citizens Campaign for the Environment, 631-384-1378, aesposito@citizenscampaign.org

Brian Smith, Citizens Campaign for the Environment, 716-472-4078, bsmith@citizenscampaign.org

Albany, NY—Today the New York State Clean Water Coalition announced their 2025 Clean Water Agenda in Albany. From increased funding for clean water infrastructure, to increased staffing at the Department of Health, to policies that would eliminate toxic PFAS chemicals from products, and more, the 2025 Clean Water Agenda lays out budget and policy priorities needed to protect New York’s water, from its source to our taps. The Coalition stressed the urgency for New York State to act, given the federal administration's efforts to halt federal funding, cut staff at environmental agencies, and rollback clean water protections.

The Coalition joined with Senator Pete Harckham and Assemblymember Deborah Glick, chairs of the Senate and Assembly Environmental Conservation Committees, to call for increased funding in the 2025-2026 budget for the NYS Clean Water Infrastructure Act (CWIA). The coalition is requesting $600 million. Governor Hochul has proposed to maintain funding for the program at $500 million in her executive budget proposal. The U.S. EPA estimates a $90 billion need to upgrade and maintain wastewater and drinking water infrastructure in NYS.

Senator Harckham, Chair, Environmental Conservation Committee said: “The Clean Water Infrastructure Act has helped communities across the state with vital water quality improvements for their residents. We need to increase our commitment in protecting our fragile drinking water supplies to ensure long-term sustainability for our residents.”

“All New Yorkers deserve access to clean, safe drinking water. The Clean Water Infrastructure Act is critical funding that has made progress in addressing some of New York’s aging water infrastructure, but each year, the need is far greater than the funds available. As we look at the increased flooding and storm surges that come with climate change, along with uncertainty of support from the federal government, New York investing in clean water has never been more important. I look forward to working with my colleagues in the legislature along with advocates to ensure that CWIA funds are prioritized in the final budget agreement,” said Assemblymember Deborah Glick, Chair of the Assembly Environmental Conservation Committee.

Adrienne Esposito, Executive Director for Citizens Campaign for the Environment, said: “New York’s Clean Water Infrastructure Act has been a resounding success for our environment and economy, but we have much more work to do. Now, as the federal government signals an assault on clean water protections, it’s more important than ever for New York to step up and increase clean water funding and protections. We look forward to working with Governor Hochul, Senator Harckham, Assemblymember Glick and other elected leaders to meet the moment and take every action needed to protect clean and affordable water for all New Yorkers.”

Jenny Ingrao-Aman, Executive Director, New York Section American Water Works Association said: "New York’s water systems are at a critical crossroads. With federal cuts threatening clean water programs and environmental protections, it is imperative that our state steps up to invest in our water infrastructure, workforce, and regulatory agencies. We urge our state leaders to prioritize increased funding to protect public health, safeguard our environment, and secure the future of New York’s water systems."

Rob Hayes, Senior Director of Clean Water with Environmental Advocates NY, said, "Every county in New York State has benefitted from the Clean Water Infrastructure Act. These grants are protecting public health, creating good-paying union jobs, and keeping water bills affordable. But the need to safeguard our drinking water is greater than ever, especially with new federal requirements to replace dangerous lead pipes and filter toxic PFAS chemicals. We are grateful for Senator Harckham and Assemblymember Glick's leadership in advocating to increase Clean Water Infrastructure Act funding to $600 million this year, and we look forward to the State Legislature and Governor including this investment in the final state budget."

Jill Jedlicka, executive director of Buffalo Niagara Waterkeeper stated: “State funding is crucial to the health of New York’s Great Lakes and our other waterways in Western New York. Local communities continue to be challenged by crumbling water infrastructure, the threat of PFAS and lead in our drinking water supplies, and the need for source water protection. The most important action our leaders can take is to ensure that policies like the Clean Water Infrastructure Act are funded at meaningful levels relative to the scale of the problem. Our lawmakers in New York State have demonstrated leadership on these issues before. Today, our communities are counting on our Governor, legislative leadership and Western New York representatives to unite and rise to the occasion again to protect the health and integrity of Western New York’s waterways and Great Lakes.”

"New Yorkers deserve clean, safe water — but right now, too many communities are struggling with failing pipes, sewage overflows, and drinking water contamination," said Jeremy Cherson, Associate Director of Government Affairs for Riverkeeper. "With the chaos at the federal level, we can’t afford to wait. The Clean Water Infrastructure Act has been a game-changer, but demand now exceeds the funding available. That’s why our broad coalition of environmental advocates, wastewater and drinking water utilities, and workers are calling on the Legislature to increase funding to $600 million. This is about protecting our health, our economy, and our future."

David Ansel, vice president of water protection, Save the Sound: "Nitrogen pollution is the leading threat to water quality in Long Island Sound. Clean Water Infrastructure Act programs like the Water Infrastructure Improvement Act, Intermunicipal Grant program, and the Septic System Replacement Program support communities seeking to repair and upgrade their infrastructure to reduce nitrogen pollution in their bays and harbors and protect habitat and marine life. To meet the growing challenges in the Long Island Sound region and across the state, clean water infrastructure funding must keep up with rising costs. That is why Save the Sound supports a $100 million increase to the CWIA in the budget for FY2026."

The CWIA supports a number of programs that work to protect clean water, from its source to the tap. This includes, but is not limited to, upgrading outdated sewage treatment plants, installing advanced treatment technology to filter emerging contaminants from drinking water, lead pipe replacement, replacing failing septic systems, acquiring land critical to protecting source water, reducing pollution from farms that impact water quality, and more. The state has appropriated $5.5 billion to the CWIA since its inception in 2017.

The Coalition highlighted several points to justify a funding increase, including but not limited to:

• An estimated 296 communities across New York State will have to comply with new federal drinking water regulations for dangerous PFAS chemicals, costing communities hundreds of millions of dollars to install new drinking water treatment technology.

• Federal regulations require that New York State replace all of its estimated 494,000 lead pipes by 2037, which is estimated to cost up to $5 billion.

• According to the EPA, New York’s wastewater and drinking water needs have reached nearly $90 billion

• New York can and must spend more:

  • In 2024, NYS awarded approximately $800 million to at least 250 projects through the CWIA—far exceeding the $600 million request being supported by coalition.

  • The Water Infrastructure Improvement Act (WIIA), a program within the CWIA, was significantly oversubscribed in 2024—271 eligible, shovel-ready applications, requesting $744 million, did not receive the funding they needed.

• CWIA is estimated to create 17 jobs for every million dollars invested. Extrapolated out for the $5.5 billion appropriated thus far, the CWIA is estimated to create over 93,000 jobs!

Lee Zeldin’s Confirmation as Administrator of the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency

In the face of tragic environmental and economic impacts of climate change, nationwide PFAS contamination, degrading wastewater infrastructure and a growing need for renewable energy development, Americans need EPA Administrator Zeldin to hold strong and do what’s right to protect our environment and our future.

For more information, contact: Adrienne Esposito, Executive Director: 516-390-7150, aesposito@citizenscampaign.org

Farmingdale, NY – In response to Lee Zeldin’s confirmation as Administrator of the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Adrienne Esposito, Executive Director, Citizens Campaign for the Environment said:

“Citizens Campaign for the Environment (CCE) congratulates Lee Zeldin on his confirmation as Administrator of the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. The past Trump administration has a track record of anti-environment actions including rolling back critical water protections, attempts to halt renewable energy development, abdicating its responsibility to fight climate change, and prioritizing polluting industry profits over American’s health. In contrast, as a Congressman, Lee Zeldin fought to prevent offshore drilling on the East Coast, protected drinking water from PFAS, and supported offshore wind, all while living in a community directly impacted by climate change.

Wildfires continue to rage in California, sea level is rising, extreme weather events are now commonplace, PFAS and lead contamination in drinking water are rampant throughout America. Americans need the EPA to do its job.  Americans need the EPA to provide us a future filled with promise, not a future filled with pollution. We are counting on Administrator Zeldin to remember his roots and past votes and to continue to fight climate change and stand strong against efforts to weaken protections for the air we breathe, the water we drink, and our family’s health. At the end of the day his job description is in the title, environmental protection. CCE looks forward to continuing to work with Administrator Zeldin in his new role to be the guardian of our nation’s environment.”

Horseshoe Crabs Left on the Chopping Block by Governor Hochul

Governor Hochul gives horseshoe crabs the axe by vetoing the Horseshoe Crab Protection Act. Advocates are alarmed with the Governor’s decision to leave this keystone species susceptible to local extinction.

For immediate release: December 15, 2024

For more information, contact: Adrienne Esposito, Executive Director: 516-390-7150, aesposito@citizenscampaign.org

Albany, NY –  Governor Kathy Hochul has vetoed the Horseshoe Crab Protection Act (S.3185A/A.10140), which was resoundingly passed by the NYS Legislature and has immense support from the public. This law would have prohibited the taking of horseshoe crabs for commercial and biomedical purposes in New York. A broad coalition of advocates and environmental organizations are disturbed by the Governor’s decision to veto this bill.

In response to the veto, Adrienne Esposito, Executive Director, Citizens Campaign for the Environment said:

“Governor Hochul didn’t just drop the ball; she dropped the axe by vetoing the Horseshoe Crab Protection Act. It’s unacceptable to allow the continued antiquated practice of chopping up horseshoe crabs so they can be used as bait by fisherman. Overharvesting has drastically depleted horseshoe crab populations, to the point where they now face local extinction. This archaic harvesting practice should have been left in the past, but with this veto, horseshoe crabs may be lost to history. We are appalled that Governor Hochul squandered a rare and special opportunity to save an ancient species from extinction. The Governor’s inaction is not only harmful to horseshoe crabs, but also to the many other species that rely on them, such as the Red Knot. Other states have already passed or are considering legislation to end the taking of horseshoe crabs, but New York has repeatedly failed to implement any meaningful protections. We are truly saddened that we are now more likely to see horseshoe crabs in museums than on our shores.”

Horseshoe Crabs have existed for over 350 million years, having shared the planet with the dinosaurs. Horseshoe crabs act as a keystone species in the food web, their eggs are the single most important food source for millions of migrating shorebirds, including threatened birds, such as the Red Knot. As horseshoe crab populations have drastically dropped, so has the Red Knot’s. Experts predict the Red Knot may become extinct unless action is taken to protect horseshoe crabs. Sharks, sportfish, sea turtles, and other species also feed on horseshoe crabs, making them critical to the food web and a diverse ecosystem. 

According to the Atlantic States Marine Fisheries Commission, horseshoe crab populations have been in decline for at least 15 years. This is largely due to harvesting by commercial fishermen who chop up the crabs and use them as bait for eel and conch. Horseshoe crabs are slow to mature and therefore very susceptible to harvesting impacts. Alternative eel and conch bait are in development to reduce the exploitation of horseshoe crabs while satisfying the needs of fishermen.

Horseshoe crab’s blue blood is used by pharmaceutical and medical manufacturers to test products for the presence of bacterial substances known as endotoxins.  However, New York has not issued permits for biomedical harvesting of horseshoe crabs in over 10 years. Now there are synthetic alternatives that are widely available and are an effective replacement for the blue blood of horseshoe crabs.

Over 40,000 letters, post cards, and emails from members of the public have been sent to the Governor in support of the Horseshoe Crab Protection Act and yet, the Governor ignored all of them. Connecticut has already banned the taking of horseshoe crabs and other states are considering similar action which may drive increased harvesting in New York’s waters. The Horseshoe Crab Protection Act (S.3185A/A.10140) would have prohibited that taking of horseshoe crabs for commercial and biomedical purposes and would have protected this vulnerable species and the many other species who rely on them.

Dr. Jane Goodall Joins the Fight to Protect Horseshoe Crabs in New York

For immediate release: November 18, 2024

For more information contact: Adrienne Esposito, Executive Director,  cell 631-384-1378  aesposito@citizenscampaign.org

Erin McGrath, Policy Director for National Audubon Society’s New York State office – Cell 518-860-426

Farmingdale, NY – As the battle to protect Horseshoe Crabs in New York heats up, one of the world’s most prominent conservationists weighs in to call on Governor Hochul to sign the Horseshoe Crab Protection Bill.  Horseshoe Crabs have roamed the earth for over 350 million years and shared this planet with the dinosaurs.  However, this species is now vulnerable to local extinction unless action is taken soon. Horseshoe crab populations have become depleted largely due to commercial fisherman who catch them and chop them up for bait for catching eel and conch.

This year the NY State legislature passed the Horseshoe Crab Protection Act (S3185A/A10140) which prohibits the taking of Horseshoe crabs from New York waters. This legislation will allow the populations to recover and ensure the survival of this important species.  Governor Hochul has been reluctant to sign the bill, and she only has 6 more weeks to do so. 

Dr. Jane Goodall is one of the world’s most prominent conservation scientists and has almost 60 years of traveling the world to successfully advance conservation and protection of endangered species. Dr. Goodall penned a letter to Governor Hochul on November 12, 2024, requesting that the Governor sign the Horseshoe Crab Protection Act.  Dr. Goodall’s letter states, “I believe New York has an opportunity to lead in this conservation effort. By signing this bill, you can ensure the survival of the horseshoe crab and the many species that depend on it. I have devoted my life to preserving the planet and I hope together, we can make a lasting difference in this important corner of the world.”

“It’s a rare and special event when Dr. Goodall reaches out and requests New York help her in saving our planet’s endangered species.  Governor Hochul should heed the wisdom and vision that Dr. Goodall provides and immediately sign this important legislation,” said Adrienne Esposito, Executive Director of Citizens Campaign for the Environment.

NY Senator Brad Hoylman-Sigal said, “Dr. Jane Goodall, the most respected conservationist in the world, has joined our cause to protect New York’s ancient horseshoe crab population. Dr. Goodall knows what she’s talking about when she says that we can help preserve our planet by making the Horseshoe Crab Protection Act (S.3185A) law. The Horseshoe Crab Protection Act will bring New York in line with neighboring states that have already banned the taking of horseshoe crabs and protect this crucial ‘keystone’ species. I’m hopeful Governor Hochul will sign this bill into law soon.”

“I am thrilled to be joined by Dr. Goodall in our efforts to protect the horseshoe crab within the waters of New York. Very few people understand the importance of species conservation better than Dr. Goodall; when she speaks, we should carefully listen to her words. Despite the current fishery management scheme, there has been a disturbingly steep decline in this species which cannot continue. We must ensure a future for this ancient keystone species” said NYS Assemblymember Deborah J. Glick, who is the Assembly sponsor of the legislation.

"We are grateful that Dr. Jane Goodall has lent her voice to our collective efforts to protect horseshoe crabs. Horseshoe crabs are a keystone species that supports a number of migratory shorebirds, fish, and other marine life that rely on them for a food source. Unfortunately, the horseshoe crab population has been declining drastically, and the species that rely on them have followed suit," said Erin McGrath, Policy Director for the National Audubon Society’s New York State office. “Neighboring states, including Connecticut, Massachusetts, and New Jersey, have closed their horseshoe crab fisheries in order to protect this important species, and we believe it is time for New York State to join them. We urge Governor Hochul and the Department of Environmental Conservation to take immediate action to help our horseshoe crab population recover and thrive. “

"With the support from Dr. Jane Goodall, as well as scientists and conservationists from around the world, it is becoming abundantly clear how urgent the preservation of horseshoe crabs truly is," said Caitlin Ferrante, Conservation Program Manager, Sierra Club Atlantic Chapter. "Horseshoe crabs are essential to the ecological resilience of New York's shorelines and by signing into law A.10140 (Glick)/S.3185-A (Hoylman-Sigal), the Horseshoe Crab Protection Act, Governor Hochul would be ensuring protections for this keystone species and the health of our vulnerable coastline ecosystems. We are grateful for the support of Dr. Jane Goodall and urge Governor Hochul to sign this bill into law today."

Victory for Clean Water! New York State Budget Restores Crucial Clean Water Funding

Proposed cut is rejected with final budget providing full funding at $500 million for clean water infrastructure projects

CCE applauds elected leaders for securing vital funding that helps to provide safe and affordable drinking water to New York’s communities

For immediate release: April 19, 2024

For more information, contact:

Adrienne Esposito, Executive Director, 516-390-7150, aesposito@citizenscampaign.org

Brian Smith, Associate Executive Director, 716-472-4078, bsmith@citizenscampaign.org

Albany, NY— Today CCE is celebrating the allocation of $500 million for the Clean Water Infrastructure Act (CWIA) included in the final 2024-25 state budget. The CWIA program allows communities to upgrade sewers and septic systems, fix drinking water pipes, install treatment technology for emerging contaminants, protect source water, and more. Since 2017, New York has provided $5 billion for this important program, which has provided significant results for New York’s environment and economy. While previous budgets have allocated $500 million per year for clean water, Governor Hochul originally proposed $250 million in her SFY 2024-25 Executive Budget proposal. The Senate and Assembly budgets both proposed to restore the funding for this important program, and $500 million for the CWIA was ultimately included in the final budget.

Adrienne Esposito, Executive Director at Citizens Campaign for the Environment (CCE), issued the following statement:

“Citizens Campaign for the Environment is thrilled that Clean Water Infrastructure Act funding, which helps protect our water from its source to our taps, was restored in this year’s budget.  New York has made significant investments in clean water in recent years, but it’s only a drop in the bucket of the $80 billion needed to upgrade aging wastewater and drinking water infrastructure over 20 years. Our communities continue to struggle with nitrogen pollution and harmful algal blooms caused by aging sewage infrastructure, sink holes and water main breaks, lead pipes, and emerging contaminants such as PFAS and 1,4-dioxane in drinking water. Ignoring these problems does not make them go away. It will only become more expensive over time while putting our environment and public health at greater risk.

Robust funding in recent years has helped to advance numerous successful clean water projects, and we are thrilled to see funding restored in this year’s budget, which will allow communities to continue progress toward safe and affordable drinking water for all New Yorkers. CCE thanks environmental champions Senator Harckham and Assemblymember Glick, along with Speaker Heastie, Majority Leader Stewart Cousins, and Governor Hochul for working to restore this critical funding in the final budget.”

North Americans Now Getting Less Exposure to Hidden Carcinogen 1,4-Dioxane after New York Law Creates Industry-Wide Change

NY’s law limiting 1,4-dioxane in personal care products is now in full effect and has created substantial change. In response, Proctor & Gamble has significantly reduced 1,4 Dioxane in their products throughout America and Canada.

 More information contact: Adrienne Esposito, Executive Director 631-384-1378  aesposito@citizenscampaign.org

Farmingdale, NY -  1,4-Dioxane is an emerging contaminant of concern found in drinking water throughout the nation. The EPA designates 1,4-dioxane as a likely carcinogen to humans. In 2019,

1,4-dioxane, called the “hidden carcinogen” is lurking in everyday products and has been contaminating drinking water and putting public health at risk for decades. This chemical is a biproduct of manufacturing and therefore is not listed on the label.  The public is not aware we are washing our hair, bodies, and clothes with products containing this harmful chemical.

Citizens Campaign for the Environment (CCE) successfully advocated for a first-in-the-nation law mandating manufacturers remove 1,4-dioxane from products down to trace levels to protect our drinking water and public health. The NY legislation was driven by a CCE report which revealed independent testing results for several common household products, including shampoos, body washes, soaps and detergents. We found that 80% of the products tested contained 1,4-dioxane, some at levels over 10,000 ppb. As of January 1st, 2024, manufacturers are mandated to reduce 1,4-dioxane down to 1,000 ppb or lower for products sold in NY.

The good news is that our latest 1,4-dioxane report, including a new round of independent testing for laundry detergents, shows that NY’s law is working. The better news is that, thanks to the NY law, Proctor & Gamble has confirmed that these reformulated products with greatly reduced 1,4-dioxane levels are being sold throughout North America.

Citizens Campaign for the Environment’s Executive Director, Adrienne Esposito, issued the following statement:

“CCE could not be more thrilled to report that NY’s first-of-its-kind law limiting 1,4-dioxane in household products is a huge success and has spurred manufacturers to reformulate products being sold through North America. Every American and Canadian using Proctor & Gamble products, from Tide or Dreft laundry detergent to Pantene shampoo to Dawn dish soap, is now getting significantly less exposure to this toxic chemical. Thanks to NY’s law, we now have less contamination in our drinking water and less toxic products in our homes throughout North America. If Proctor & Gamble could do it, so should every other manufacturer. The public deserves to finally be rid of the hidden carcinogen.”

Read the report here.

Senator Harckham & Assemblymember Glick Join Clean Water Advocates to Call for Increased Funding for Clean Water in SFY 2024-25 Budget

Governor Hochul’s proposal to cut to Clean Water Infrastructure Act funding by 50% threatens communities’ ability to filter emerging contaminants in drinking water, prevent dangerous sewage overflows, create jobs, and ensure affordable drinking water

For more information, contact:

Adrienne Esposito, Citizens Campaign for the Environment, 631-384-1378, aesposito@citizenscampaign.org

Brian Smith, Citizens Campaign for the Environment, 716-831-3206, bsmith@citizenscampaign.org

Rob Hayes, Environmental Advocates NY, 314-518-1454, rhayes@eany.org

A recording of the press conference can be viewed here.

Albany, NY—Today the chairs of the Senate and Assembly Environmental Conservation Committees joined with unions and members of the New York State Clean Water Coalition as they laid out their 2024 clean water agenda, which includes support for a $600 million investment in the Clean Water Infrastructure Act (CWIA). The CWIA program has been funded at $500 million annually since 2019, yet the Governor has proposed to cut funding by 50%, down to $250 million, in her SFY 2024-25 executive budget proposal. New York State agencies have conservatively estimated that the state will need to invest $80 billion to upgrade and maintain wastewater and drinking water infrastructure over 20 years.

Adrienne Esposito, Executive Director for Citizens Campaign for the Environment, said: “Clean water is a necessity, not a luxury item that should be sacrificed to help fill budget gaps. The Clean Water Infrastructure Act has been a resounding success for our environment and economy, but we have so much more work to do to ensure safe and affordable water for all New Yorkers. Cutting funding now will only set us further back in our efforts to prevent sewage overflows, filter toxic contaminants from drinking water, and avoid costly water main breaks. We commend Senator Harckham and Assemblymember Glick for their leadership to protect clean water, and we look forward to working with the legislature to ensure increased clean water funding in the final state budget.”

Senator Pete Harckham, Chair of the NYS Senate Environmental Conservation Committee, said, “We need to build upon the important progress made statewide since enacting the Clean Water Infrastructure Act seven years ago, and not go backwards with underfunding and misdirecting resources. Protecting New York’s fragile drinking water supplies and upgrading delivery systems, filtration facilities, sewage treatment—all of this is critical to safeguarding public health and ensuring economic growth. If we don’t make these proper investments now, it may soon be too late. I thank the New York State Clean Water Coalition for its advocacy and support in this regard and for raising an alarm: our clean water is key to our future posterity.”

Assemblymember Deborah J. Glick, Chair of the Assembly Environmental Conservation Committee, said, “This critical funding stream has made great progress in updating New York’s aging water infrastructure in every corner of the state, because all New Yorkers deserve access to clean, safe drinking water. Regrettably, in too many communities we still have contaminants in drinking water, and it is vital to filter those out for New Yorkers’ health. Additionally, we must move aggressively to remove lead service lines and protect our infrastructure especially during flooding and storm surges. Now is not the time to let up on this essential work. I look forward to working with my colleagues in the Assembly and Senate to ensure the Clean Water Infrastructure Act is appropriately funded in the final budget agreement.”

Jenny Ingrao, Executive Director for the New York Section American Water Works Association, said, “As the organization that represents the state’s drinking water professionals, the New York Section of the American Water Works Association (NYSAWWA) is keenly aware that access to clean, safe, and affordable drinking water is one of the most basic pillars of our society.  The state’s drinking water suppliers are ready to meet the challenges before us but without funding and support from our state legislators we run the very real risk that water will become simply unaffordable for many New Yorkers.” 

Rob Hayes, Director of Clean Water with Environmental Advocates NY, said, "Governor Hochul's plan to cut clean water funding in half this year is misguided and shortsighted. Our research has documented the overwhelming demand for funding to fix our pipes, a demand which continues to grow. With key clean water programs oversubscribed every year, New York needs to increase, not decrease, its investment in the Clean Water Infrastructure Act to ensure shovel-ready projects get the funding they need. New York needs more work crews out on the street protecting clean water, not fewer. We look forward to working with Senator Harckham, Assemblymember Glick, and the entire State Legislature to secure at least $600 million for clean water in the final state budget."

Khristopher Dodson, Executive Director of the New York Water Environment Association (NYWEA), said, “As the organization that represents wastewater treatment professionals throughout the state, NYWEA strongly supports increased funding for the Clean Water Infrastructure Act in the 2024-25 state budget. Much of the state’s wastewater infrastructure is aging and in dire need of repair. Cuts in funding threaten clean water, hamper economic growth, and increase costs to local ratepayers. We look forward to working with Senator Harckham, Assemblymember Glick, and the full legislature to support increased clean water funding in the final state budget.”

“The Nature Conservancy thanks Environmental Conservation Committee Chairs Senator Harckham and Assemblymember Glick, and members of the Senate and Assembly from both sides of the aisle for uniting around protecting clean water for New Yorkers. Funding for the Clean Water Infrastructure Act is essential for the health, safety, and well-being of communities throughout the state. We cannot afford to cut this funding, and in fact need to increase it given the significant needs across New York. We urge the Legislature to include at least $600 million for clean water projects in this year’s state budget,” said Jessica Ottney Maher, policy and strategy director for The Nature Conservancy in New York.

"Simply put, all lead service lines in New York State need to be removed and replaced. Aggressive action is needed and that starts with securing funds in the 2025 fiscal year budget," said Joan Leary Matthews, Senior Attorney at NRDC (Natural Resources Defense Council). "Instead of going backwards and cutting funding for safe, clean water, New York State needs to double-down and invest big time to protect residents from dangerous lead exposure."

"We do not accept a glass half full when it comes to funding for clean water infrastructure,” said Julie Tighe, President of the New York League of Conservation Voters. “Cutting $250 million per year for two years will do little to make the state whole financially, but it will jeopardize public health, the environment and the jobs created by infrastructure projects to fix our pipes and deliver safe drinking water to our families. Everyone deserves clean water and we urge Governor Hochul not to short change New Yorkers on this fundamental right.”

“The Governor's budget plan to cut the Clean Water Infrastructure Act by fifty percent means fewer investments in aging sewers and wastewater treatment plants, and fewer communities accessing grants for drinking water protection projects,” said Riverkeeper President Tracy Brown. “New York’s water infrastructure needs critical updates to drinking water and wastewater systems that affect the health and safety of our residents. Since these needs escalate every year, reducing an already insufficient amount of funding by half will worsen these challenges and make it more difficult for local governments to access the funding they critically need to provide clean drinking water and clean up local waterways.”

“We’ve seen a tenfold increase in Harmful Algal Blooms in lakes across the Adirondacks in recent years, making it more important than ever for the State to fully invest in Clean Water infrastructure projects.” said Raul J. Aguirre, Executive Director of the Adirondack Council.  “State grants, made directly to the small, rural communities of the Adirondack Park, make upgrades to clean water infrastructure affordable so that all New Yorkers can benefit. Without these funds, most projects are simply not possible.”

David Ansel, Vice President of Water Protection, Save the Sound: “Governor Hochul’s proposal to spread $500 million for the Clean Water Infrastructure Act over two years is a major step backward at a time when we can least afford it. Our investments must match the moment. Scaling back weakens our position to leverage the available federal funding necessary to ensure our local municipalities can afford to take on these expensive infrastructure investments to reduce wastewater pollution. We have billions of dollars’ worth of work to do to protect clean water in the Long Island Sound region alone. There would be an environmental and economic opportunity cost to such a reduction.”

Not only has the CWIA helped to protect clean water in every community across the state, but it has also created good jobs and supported economic growth. The state estimates that every million dollars invested in clean water infrastructure generates 17 jobs.

John J. Murphy, international representative of the United Association of Journeymen & Apprentices of the Plumbing and Pipefitting Industry of the United States and Canada and member of the Clean Energy Jobs Coalition-NY, said "Inadequate water infrastructure jeopardizes the health and prosperity of New York. It is imperative for New York’s leadership to reconsider the value of strengthening water system safety with a $600 million commitment or more.  This not only protects public health but energizes economic growth through the creation of skilled, family-sustaining jobs for years to come."

The CWIA supports a number of programs that work to protect clean water, from its source to the tap. This includes, but is not limited to, upgrading outdated sewage treatment plants, installing advanced treatment technology to filter emerging contaminants from drinking water, lead pipe replacement, replacing failing septic systems, acquiring land critical to protecting source water, reducing pollution from farms that impact water quality, and more. The state has appropriated $5 billion to the CWIA since its inception in 2017.

The New York State Clean Water Coalition, which was established in 2017 and is led by Citizens Campaign for the Environment (CCE), includes environmental organizations, wastewater treatment operators, drinking water suppliers, and other clean water stakeholders. Today the Coalition publicly released their Shared Agenda for Clean Water in 2024, which outlines this year’s top agreed upon priorities for protecting clean water.

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WHAT HAPPENS TO PUBLIC LETTERS SENT TO THE GOVERNOR TO PROTECT BEES?

RETURN TO SENDER 

Public comments addressed to the Governor, sent c/o NYS Ag and Markets, in support of the Birds and Bees Protection Act, were opened and sent back to grassroots advocacy group

Farmingdale, NY—Today, Citizens Campaign for the Environment (CCE) received an opened and resealed package of public comments supporting the Birds and Bees Protection Act, sent to Governor Hochul via NYS Ag and Markets, with “return to sender” written on it. CCE, a nonprofit, nonpartisan, grassroots organization has been working to ensure the Governor hears from the public on critical environmental issues. Over a thousand postcards from the public have been sent to the Governor in support of this critical bill in recent weeks. With just a few weeks left for the Governor to sign this nation-leading environmental legislation, it’s critically important that the Governor hear from the public and that her staff values public input.  However, the return of over 80 postcards indicates that the voice of the public is being dismissed and ignored. 

Over the last several months, CCE has sent several packages containing signed postcards from members of the public to the Governor, via NYS Ag and Markets, requesting she sign the bill. They are being sent to Kevin King, Deputy Commissioner at NYS Ag and Markets.  State agencies, including NYS Ag and Markets, provide important input to the Governor on bills being considered to be signed into law.  This is the first-time public comments have been returned.

In response Adrienne Esposito, Executive Director of Citizens Campaign for the Environment said:

 “In over 30 years of advocating on behalf of the public and sending New York Governors public correspondence, this has never happened. It’s highly disturbing and sends a message that public comments are not valued. CCE has collected and mailed approximately a thousand postcards from the public to the Governor, sent via NYS Ag and Markets, in support of the Birds and Bees Protection Act. To have them opened and sent back is insulting and demeaning to the public. Although his name is Kevin King, he should be reminded that there are no kings in our democracy, only public servants. We have been talking to the public about this bill and we hear how much they care about saving bees and protecting our pollinators. CCE works to ensure the public voice is being heard, and we need the Governor to listen and have access to her mail.”

The Birds and Bees Protection Act is science-based legislation that strategically eliminates unnecessary uses of neonics. Corn, soy, and wheat treated seeds account for an estimated 73% of all neonics used in New York.  Lawn, garden, ornamental, and turf (aka cosmetic) uses make up an additional 15%. A 2020 report by Cornell University found that neonic treated corn, soy, and wheat seeds provide "no overall net income benefits" or yield benefits to farmers yet pose significant risk to bees and other pollinators. Likewise, cosmetic uses pose a high risk to pollinators but are easily replaced with safer alternatives. The Birds and Bees Protection Act will eliminate at least 85% - 90% of all neonics used in New York, protect water quality, food security, and ensure we are not poisoning our birds, bees, and pollinators with this toxic pesticide.

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THANKSGIVING WON’T BEE THE SAME WITHOUT BEES

Advocates call on Governor Hochul to sign the Birds and Bees Protection Act and ban unnecessary uses of toxic neonics pesticides

For immediate release: November 14, 2023

Contact: Adrienne Esposito, Executive Director: 631-384-1378 (mobile), aesposito@citizenscampaign.org

Farmingdale, NY—Ahead of Thanksgiving, advocates came together to fight for the protection of one of earth’s most important species, bees, and call on Governor Hochul to sign the Birds and Bees Protection Act. This law would ban the use of neonicotinoid (neonic) treated seeds for corn, soybean, and wheat seeds, as well as ornamental uses such as on lawns, gardens, and golf courses. The harmful overuse of neonics has devastated pollinator populations in New York. Honeybee keepers are losing over 45% of their colonies annually. These pollinator losses are attributed to the use of neonics, mainly from coated seeds. Corn, soybean, and wheat treated seeds account for over 73% of all neonics used in New York and ornamental uses make up an additional 15%. According to a 2020 report by Cornell University, these uses provide no net income benefit to users yet pose some of the highest risks to pollinators.

Many of the staples at the Thanksgiving table are pollinator dependent crops, such as pumpkins, squash, and apples. Unfortunately, the unnecessary use of neonics has decimated pollinator populations and as a result we are starting to see smaller yields of these crops. To avoid future Thanksgiving dinners without pumpkin pie, Governor Hochul must sign the Birds and Bees Protection Act.

 View a recording of the press conference here.

Adrienne Esposito, Executive Director, Citizens Campaign for the Environment said, “Governor Hochul, give us something to really be thankful for this Thanksgiving, sign the Birds and Bees Protection Act! This bill is the most environmentally important bill awaiting the Governor’s signature and the entire country is watching to see if New York acts as a leader. Our bees and pollinators are essential to produce so many of the foods we love at Thanksgiving. We can start thanking them by not continuing to poison them with toxic neonics. The bill needs to be signed without weakening amendments. We won’t settle for just a piece of the pie, Governor Hochul needs to go for it all and ban neonic treated corn, soybean, and wheat, seeds as well as ornamental uses. If the Governor can’t save the bees, we are going to rely on the Legislature to override her and save the bees themselves.”

Caitlin Ferrante, Conservation & Development Program Manager, Sierra Club Atlantic Chapter said, “Science has shown that neonicotinoids are one of the main causes of an alarming crash in pollinator populations nationwide,” said Caitlin Ferrante, Conservation Program Manager, Sierra Club Atlantic Chapter. “The Birds and Bees Protection Act is an historic, nation-leading bill that will end the unnecessary use of these toxic pesticides and has been crafted to reflect the concerns raised by ag communities. The Sierra Club strongly urges the Governor to sign this important bill into law, to address the unnecessary use of neonics in treated corn, wheat, and soy seeds, and also in turf and ornamental environments. S1856-A/A7640 reflects key findings of NY’s own Cornell University. The Birds and Bees Protection Act is gearing up to be a defining moment for Governor Hochul’s environmental legacy and we urge her to sign it into law today.” 

“Neonics are the most ecologically destructive pesticides since DDT, and extensive, state-commissioned research shows their largest and most widespread use—toxic seed coatings on corn and soybean seeds—provides $0 in benefits to New York farmers,” said Dan Raichel, Acting Director, Pollinator Initiative, Natural Resources Defense Council. “Add that to the bee losses diminishing fruit and vegetable production, extensive neonic water contamination, and the growing threats to New Yorkers’ health, and there is no good argument left for inaction. The Birds and Bees Protection Act gives the Governor a commonsense way to follow through on her stated commitment to pollinators and be the environmental leader New York State needs.”

Joy Flynn, Conservation Chair of Garden Clubs of America said “For the past two years, garden clubs in New York State have been advocating for the elimination of neonicotinoids on edible seeds and their use in home gardening products. The NYS legislature has passed the bill and we're counting on Governor Hochul to do the right thing and sign it into law."

Moira Alexander-Master Beekeeper said “Honeybees are an integral part of New York State's agriculture and economy. The income produced by the beekeeping industry for pollination services generates about $300 million with an additional $11 million dollars for the sale of honey. Honeybees are a vital part of our ecosystem and are part of the biodiversity on which we all depend for survival. It is in our best interest to protect them from harmful pesticides by signing this bill into law.” 

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Sen. Hoylman-Sigal and Advocates Call on Governor Hochul to Sign Birds & Bees Protection Act

World Honey Bee Day Prompts Supporters to call for Governor’s Signature on Nation-Leading Neonic Pesticide Legislation

View a recording of the press conference here.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: Tuesday, August 15, 2023

Contact: Rita Yelda, Natural Resources Defense Council, 732-979-0655, ryelda@nrdc.org

Adrienne Esposito, Citizens Campaign for the Environment,  631-384-1378, aesposito@citizenscampaign.org

Albany, NY (August 15, 2023) — With summer drawing to a close and World Honey Bee Day approaching (August 19th), legislators, advocates, and farmers from across the state called on Governor Hochul to sign the Birds and Bees Protection Act (S.1856-A Hoylman-Sigal/A.7640 Glick). They urged the Governor to demonstrate her commitment to New York’s bees and other pollinators, diverse ecosystems, agricultural future, and people by signing this bill during this year’s Climate Week in September. The bill passed both the NYS Senate and Assembly in the 2023 Legislative Session, and would be the first in the nation to address neonic seed coatings–the largest and most widespread neonic use in New York and nationwide.

Long connected to mass losses of bees and other pollinators critical to New York’s agricultural economy and environment, neonics now are emerging as likely the most ecologically destructive pesticides since DDT. In May, U.S. EPA made the unprecedented finding that neonic use is likely driving 200+ species toward extinction. The pesticides have also been linked with mass losses of birds, the collapse of aquatic ecosystems, and birth defects in deer. Widespread contaminants in New York’s water resources–and the most frequently detected insecticides in the Long Island aquifer–neonics frequently pollute New Yorker’s bodies too. Near-ubiquitous and steadily rising levels of neonics in NYS pregnant women has NYS health experts raising alarms, especially regarding children’s neurological health.

While bee losses already impact farmers economically, neonic pollution also inflicts broader harms on New York’s farms and the state’s goals for climate-smart agriculture. Neonics have made U.S. agriculture 10x to 50x more harmful to insects since their introduction, injuring species critical to soil health and carbon storage—such as beneficial nematodes, earthworms, and soil decomposers. Neonics can also more directly harm soil health by impairing beneficial bacteria crucial for plant growth and health and soil fertility and quality. Other research shows neonics travel through food webs, and can eliminate pest predators and decrease crop yields. 

The Birds and Bees Protection Act would prohibit 80-90% of the neonics entering New York’s environment annually by eliminating only those uses that provide no economic benefits to users  or are easily replaced by safer alternatives according to the findings of an extensive 2020 Cornell University report. It targets only neonic coatings (“treatments”) on corn, soybean, and wheat seeds and uses on lawns and gardens—without prohibiting any other agricultural uses (even other corn, soybean, or wheat uses) or treatment for invasive species. This science-based and surgical approach would address the heart of New York’s neonic pollution problem, conserving biodiversity and the state’s regenerative agricultural goals as climate stresses increase, while protecting clean water and the health of New Yorkers. 

Sponsor Senator Brad Hoylman-Sigal said, “On International Honeybee Day, we recognize that we can no longer take for granted the pollinators responsible for one-third of the food we eat. Every year for the past decade, New York beekeepers have lost more than 40% of their bee colonies – largely due to neonicotinoid pesticides. New York can help reverse this trend with our Birds and the Bees Protection Act to restrict the use of this toxic class of pesticides that threatens the future of our agricultural industry. I join the Sierra Club, NRDC, NYLCV, Clean & Healthy York, Assemblymember Glick and Senator Harckam, farmers and beekeepers and strongly urge Governor Hochul to sign this nation-leading bill to help protect our environment for future generations of New Yorkers."

Assemblymember Deborah Glick, Chair of the Assembly Environmental Conservation Committee, said, “Pollinators are vital members of healthy ecosystems and our food supply chain. Protecting them by limiting toxins that pose adverse effects and health risks is an important step forward in our work to stop poisoning the environment and create a healthier New York. I urge Governor Hochul to join with the Assembly and Senate in protecting New York’s pollinators and prioritizing the environment by signing the Birds and Bees Protection Act into law.”
Senator Pete Harckham, Chair of the Senate Environmental Conservation Committee, said “It’s critical that Governor Hochul sign the Birds and Bees legislation to protect the health of humans and other living species on our planet. The use of neonicotinoid insecticides, which damage the central nervous systems of insects, including pollinators like honeybees, must be regulated and reduced or we risk further disruptions to our ecosystems and adverse human health outcomes as well.”

"As an organic farmer and a mother, I'm urging Governor Hochul to sign the Birds and the Bees Protection Act TODAY!” said Corinne Hansch, Lovin’ Mama Farm, Amsterdam, NY. “The signing of this bill will leave a beautiful environmental legacy for future generations of clean water, clean soil, and an intact biological community of pollinators that we all rely on for the production of fruits and vegetables. Signing the Birds and the Bees Protection Act ensures the health of future generations and a world with bees, butterflies, songbirds, apples, blueberries, pumpkins, and many other species necessary for life on earth."

“The Birds and Bees Protection Act points farmers toward healthier ways to grow healthier food,” said Dr. Kathy Nolan, a pediatrician and President of the New York Chapter of Physicians for Social Responsibility. “No one should be allowed to add nicotine-like substances to our food and water,” Dr. Nolan emphasized, “yet this is what farmers have inadvertently been doing when using seeds painted with neonicotinoid chemicals. I call on Governor Hochul and farmers across New York to protect pregnant women and developing children by embracing the BBPA and ending the practice of using seeds that introduce nicotine-like chemicals into our food and drinking water.” 

“The Birds and the Bees Protection Act would be the first in the country to limit neonic seed coatings, and it’s essential for Governor Hochul to lead nationally by signing the bill,” said Dan Raichel, Acting Director of NRDC’s (Natural Resource Defense Council) Pollinator Initiative. “We’ve long known neonics kill bees, but we now see links between neonics and mass losses of birds, the collapse of fisheries, developmental risks in people, and vast water contamination in New York. All of the harmful neonic uses targeted by the bill are easily replaced with safer alternatives — most often nothing — which makes this a common-sense bill for New York.”

“In order to save the planet we need to save the bees. Governor Hochul has an un-BEE-lievable opportunity to be a national leader in addressing unnecessary and harmful uses of toxic neonic pesticides,” said Adrienne Esposito, Executive Director, Citizens Campaign for the Environment (CCE). “Neonics kill pollinators, poison our waters and are harming our health. This critical bill will have an immense impact in protecting our pollinators, restoring food security, protecting human health and water quality from these toxic pesticides. CCE urges Governor Hochul to sign this landmark legislation and protect our pollinators.”

“The protection of our pollinators from toxic pesticides is of utmost importance at a time when they are profoundly threatened by other environmental factors due to climate change. Neonicotinoids serve no value to the corn, soybean and wheat crops they are used on. Instead,  contribute to ongoing mass population loss in birds and bees, compromise human health, and contaminate the environment,” said Bobbi Wilding, Executive Director of Clean+Healthy. “We thank Senator Brad Hoylman-Sigal and Assemblymember Deborah Glick for sponsoring the Birds and Bees Protection Act to protect us all - and we urge Governor Hochul to sign this bill into law.”

Katie Baildon, Policy Coordinator, Northeast Organic Farming Association, New York said, “Unnecessary uses of neonics are harming NY food production. Wasteful neonic use threatens pollinators that provide an estimated $389 million in pollination services, eliminates beneficial insects that farmers rely on, and harms soil health. The NOFA-NY community appreciates the NYS Legislature’s leadership in passing S.1856-A/A.7640 and urges Governor Hochul to sign the Birds and Bees Protection Act to protect our food, NY’s ecosystems and our health.”

“The science continues to show just how damaging neonics are for pollinator populations, but more and more data is emerging to highlight the toxic implications these pesticides are having on New York’s water and soil health, and the growing concern to public health,” said Caitlin Ferrante, Conservation Program Manager, Sierra Club Atlantic Chapter. “New York can be a leader in science-based neonic regulation by eliminating unjustified high-cost, low-benefit neonic uses. This reasonable approach would not prevent invasive species treatment nor agricultural uses beyond treated corn, soybean, and wheat seeds, and it would benefit pollinators, our state’s farmers who depend on them, New York’s ecosystems, and all New Yorkers who value clean soil, clean water, and their own health. We are grateful for the leadership of the NYS Legislature in passing S.1856-A/A.7640 and the leadership of the bill sponsors, Senator Hoylman-Sigal and Assemblymember Glick. We call on Governor Hochul to listen to the science and sign the Birds and Bees Protection Act into law today.” 

“By eliminating unnecessary and harmful chemicals in our treatment of pests, we will help protect New York's environment, food security, and agricultural economy,” said Andrew Williams, Deputy Director of State Policy for the New York League of Conservation Voters. “It's time for New York to finally take action to ensure the survival of our essential pollinators and the health of our communities, and that is why NYLCV stands with our partners in urging Governor Hochul to sign the  Birds and Bees Protection Act.”

Peter Nelson, New York beekeeper, and director of the documentary film, the Pollinators said “The passage of the Birds and Bees Protection Act is a major accomplishment and a win for all beekeepers in New York state as well as the general public. Regulating the use of neonicotinoid insecticides is a huge step towards creating a less toxic environment for managed honey bees, as well as hundreds of species of native bees, other beneficial insects and birds.”

“Yes, neonics are highly effective at killing pests, but they are equally as effective at harming birds, bees, and other pollinators essential to New York’s food security, environment, and agricultural economy,” said Dillon Klepetar, Farmer/Owner of Echo Farm in Essex, NY and Advocate from the Essex Farm Institute. “Farmers are some of the most innovative problem solvers. With several years to phase out this class of chemicals and the exemptions written in the bill, we need not trade profitability for future crop pollination.”

“Pollinators are essential to New York State’s food security, agricultural economy, and environment,” said Kevin Chlad, Director of Government Relations for the Adirondack Council. “We applaud Senator Hoylman-Sigal and Assemblymember Glick for passing the Birds and Bees Protection Act this year and urge Governor Hochul to sign this bill into law immediately, for our wildlife, for public health, and for our future.” 

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After Years of Effort by Environmentalists New York State Legislature Bans Unnecessary Uses of Toxic Bee Killing Neonic Pesticides

Advocates are BUZZING and Neonics will feel the STING

For immediate release: June 9, 2023

Albany, NY – The NYS Senate and Assembly resoundingly passed the Birds and Bees Protection Act. This law bans the use of neonicotinoid (neonic) treated corn, soybean, and wheat seeds, as well as ornamental uses such as on lawns, gardens, and golf courses. A diverse coalition, made up of environmental organizations, health care professionals, and organic farmers worked for several years to advance the bill.

“The birds are chirping, and the bees are buzzing with praise for our Senate and Assembly members taking action to address toxic neonic pesticides.” said Adrienne Esposito, Executive Director, Citizens Campaign for the Environment. “Neonics not only threaten our pollinators, but also contaminate our entire environment. From Long Island to the Great Lakes, neonics are contaminating our water resources and are often found at high levels. By eliminating the high-risk/low benefit uses of this pesticide, we can protect our pollinators, food security, water quality, health, and environment. CCE applauds Senator Hoylman-Sigal and Assemblywoman Glick for sponsoring and championing this bill”.

Neonicotinoids (A.K.A. “neonics”) are pesticides that attack the nervous system of insects. These pesticides largely added as a seed coating to plants, such as corn, wheat, and soybeans and used as a spray for ornamental plants and turf. As a seed coating these chemicals persist and spread as the plant grows, making the entire plant toxic to bees and other pollinators. Neonics also threaten New York’s water resources, food security, and public health.

The harmful overuse of neonics has devastated pollinator populations across the globe and in New York. These pollinator losses have been attributed to the sudden spike in use of neonics, mainly from treated seeds. Corn, soybean, and wheat treated seeds account for over 73% of all neonics used in New York and ornamental uses make up an additional 15%. According to a 2020 report by Cornell University, these uses provide no net income benefit to users yet pose some of the highest risks to pollinators.

The Birds and Bees Protection Act (S.1856A/A.7640) would ban these low benefit/high risk uses of neonics in New York. This will eliminate at least 85% - 90% of all neonics used in New York, protect water quality, and ensure we are not poisoning our birds, bees, and pollinators from this toxic pesticide. Now, we look forward to working with the Governor to sign this landmark legislation and eliminate these unnecessary and dangerous uses of neonic pesticides.

CLIMATE CHANGE IS FUELING CANADA’S FIRES AND HARMING OUR HEALTH

THE DEVESTATING IMPACTS OF THE CANADIAN WILDFIRE ARE THE LATEST EXAMPLE OF WHY WE NEED TO TAKE ACTION ON CLIMATE CHANGE

 DATE:      Friday, June 9th, 2023

CONTACT:  Adrienne Esposito, Executive Director, 631-384-1378, aesposito@citizenscampaign.org

Farmingdale, NY – The public health impacts of the unprecedented wildfires across Canada accent the widespread adverse impacts of climate change on our environment and our health.

 Adrienne Esposito, Executive Director for Citizens Campaign for the Environment, issued the following statement:

“Climate change is real and climate change is here. The Canadian wildfires are the latest heartbreaking example of a ‘new normal’ that includes extreme weather events, flooding, droughts, heat waves, wildfires and more. While there have been wildfires in Canada in the past, the months-long drought and temperatures almost 13 degrees higher than last spring have contributed to the catastrophic damage of recent fires. These events do not happen in a vacuum. Summers will continue to get hotter and dryer, extreme weather events will continue to get more severe and more frequent. They impact all of us, and as a society we must transition off fossil fuels as quickly as possible to curb the worst impacts of climate change. The time for debate or delay is over. It is time to act.”

New York State Adopts Final 2023-24 Budget

For immediate release: Wednesday, May 3, 2023

For more information, contact:

Brian Smith, CCE Associate Executive Director, 716-831-3206, bsmith@citizenscampaign.org

Maureen Murphy, CCE Executive Programs Manager, 516-390-7150, mmurphy@citizenscampaign.org

Budget provides robust funding for critical environmental programs

Albany, NY—Last night the New York State Legislature wrapped up voting on the final SFY 2023-24 budget, which included funding for a host of important environmental programs. In response, Brian Smith, Associate Executive Director at Citizens Campaign for the Environment (CCE), said:

“The final budget continues to fund programs that are critical to protect clean water, safeguard public health, fight climate change, and support environmental justice. Staffing for environmental agencies increased, with 265 positions added across multiple agencies that are needed for implementation of the state’s recently adopted environmental bond act. We commend the Governor, Senate and Assembly for continuing New York’s strong national leadership in protecting our environment.

The Clean Water Infrastructure Act was again funded at $500 million, bringing the total investment up to $5 billion since 2017. This nation-leading program is helping to protect drinking water from emerging contaminants, reduce harmful sewage overflows, create jobs, and so much more. The NYS Environmental Protection Fund (EPF) was again funded at $400 million, matching the program’s all-time high. Within the EPF, we are thrilled that the South Shore Estuary Reserve (SSER) program funding doubled from last year, up to $2 million. This additional funding for the SSER will help accomplish new priorities and goals aimed at protecting and restoring this critical natural resource.

CCE thanks the Governor and legislature for setting the stage to create a unified wastewater district in Suffolk County. This will allow the public to vote for clean water this November. This initiative is a vital step forward to restore water quality in our local rivers, bays, and harbors.

We now look forward to working with the legislature and Governor to tackle the state’s environmental needs that were not addressed in the budget before the end of session, including passage of the Packaging Reduction and Recycling Infrastructure Act, Birds and Bees Protection Act, and a host of bills needed to protect clean water and public health from dangerous PFAS chemicals.”

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Citizens Campaign for the Environment and the NY League of Conservation Voters will host a virtual Lunch and Learn: Whale Tales and Whale Facts

DATE:               Thursday, March 30th, 2023

CONTACT:      Adrienne Esposito, Executive Director, 631-384-1378, aesposito@citizenscampaign.org

Learn from the experts about whale’s off of New York’s coast, challenges they are facing and what are some of the causes of recent whale deaths.

Farmingdale, NY - Since 2016, we have witnessed an increase in whale strandings and whale deaths off of America’s shores. These high number of deaths are called a “Unusual Whale Mortality Event”. These endangered species are under threat from several sources, including ship strikes, fishing gear, plastic pollution, and climate change. Unfortunately, misinformation about whale deaths has led to concerns from the public. Join us for facts!  

Join us for this virtual educational forum to hear from experts and learn more about the recent whale strandings and deaths, and what research is being done on the local, state, and federal level to protect whales. Presentations will be followed by Q&A.

When: Tuesday, April 4, 2023, from 12:00pm – 1:00pm zoom

Where: Via Zoom—register here

Who: Speakers include:

•       Adrienne Esposito, Executive Director, Citizens Campaign for the Environment

•       Julie Tighe, President, New York League of Conservation Voters

•       Erica Staaterman, PhD, Bioacoustician,  Bureau of Ocean Energy Management

•       Robert DiGiovanni, Founder and Chief Scientist, Atlantic Marine Conservation Society

•       Meghan Rickard, Marine Zoologist, NYS Department of Environmental Conservation

A recording of this webinar can be viewed here.

CCE and Nassau Legislator Lafazan Call for Legislation to Fight Climate Change and Cut Greenhouse Gas Emissions in Nassau County

DATE:               Monday, March 27th, 2023

CONTACT:      Adrienne Esposito, Executive Director, 631-384-1378, aesposito@citizenscampaign.org

Farmingdale, NY – CCE will be joining Nassau County Legislator Joshua A. Lafazan and members of the Legislature’s Minority Caucus to introduce legislation that would require Nassau County to achieve carbon neutrality for its municipal operations by Jan. 1, 2035.

According to a recent Moody’s report, Long Island ranks fourth among major American population centers for its exposure to the physical and economic risks of climate change. We are especially vulnerable to warming temperatures, extreme weather, sea level rise and “water stress,” on our sole-source aquifer. New York State has already passed the nation’s most ambitious climate protection law, but Nassau County must take action to achieve the goals laid out in this critical legislation and be leader in the fight for renewable energy. While the state has called for economy-wide carbon neutrality by 2050, this legislation would implement a more aggressive timetable for Nassau County and ensure the county is a leader in the state by achieving carbon neutrality in municipal operations by 2035.

WHEN:  11 a.m. on Tuesday, March 28, 2023

WHERE: Theodore Roosevelt Executive & Legislative Building, 1550 Franklin Avenue (Minority Caucus Media Room), Mineola, N.Y. 11501

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EPA MAKES HISTORIC ANNOUNCMENT TO SET STRONG, ENFORCEABLE DRINKING WATER STANDARDS FOR TOXIC PFAS CHEMICALS!

For immediate release: March 14, 2023

Contact: Adrienne Esposito, Executive Director: 631-384-1378 (mobile), aesposito@citizenscampaign.org

EPA’s first new regulations on toxic chemicals in drinking water in 20 years addresses growing problem of “forever chemicals” in drinking water

CCE applauds EPA’s move to protect public health and clean drinking water, calls on NYS to follow EPA’s lead

Farmingdale, NY—Today, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) proposed new enforceable drinking water standards, known as Maximum Contaminant Levels (MCLs), for two PFAS chemicals (PFOA and PFOS), as well as a new hazard index for four additional PFAS chemicals (PFNA, PFBS, PFHxS, and GenX). The MCLs for PFOA and PFOS are proposed at 4 parts per trillion (ppt), which is significantly stronger than New York State’s existing MCLs of 10ppt for both PFOS and PFOA. This is a significantly low standard, crafted to protect public health.

PFAS are known as “forever chemicals” because they do not break down in our environment or bodies. Exposure is linked to cancer, liver damage, thyroid issues, birth defects, kidney disease, decreased immunity and other serious health problems. Last year EPA put out non-enforceable health advisory guidelines for PFOA (.004 ppt) and PFOS (.02ppt). This was significantly lower than the previous health guideline of 70 ppt and signified that there is essentially no safe level of exposure to these chemicals. Today the EPA also proposed a Maximum Contaminant Level Goal (a non-enforceable health advisory level) for PFOA and PFOS at zero, confirming that there is no safe level of exposure.

In September of 2022, the NYS Department of Health (DOH) issued a proposal to regulate an additional 23 PFAS chemicals in drinking water. The regulations have not been finalized. The regulations did not propose to adjust MCLs for PFOA and PFOS, despite the release of EPA’s health guidelines indicating that there is no safe level of exposure.

In response to EPA’s announcement, Adrienne Esposito, Executive Director of Citizens Campaign for the Environment, issued the following statement:

“This is a historic victory for clean water and public health! This ruling will provide critical public health protection for every member of the public. We commend the EPA for following the science and proposing strong standards to protect our water and the public from dangerous “forever chemicals”. PFAS is group of highly toxic chemicals that tragically have become ubiquitous in our environment. Setting strong, enforceable drinking water standards is a needed step to remove this dangerous contaminant from drinking water across the nation.

New York will ultimately have to strengthen its existing MCLs for PFOA and PFOS to align with EPA’s new regulations. Given the science indicating that there is no safe level of exposure to these chemicals, we are urging Governor Hochul and the Department of Health not to wait and to adopt the stronger standards without delay. Furthermore, NYS should revisit and strengthen the proposed regulations on the additional 23 PFAS chemicals.

Thankfully, the state and federal governments have recently provided historic levels of funding to address PFAS in drinking water, with grants already being provided for needed treatment technology to many communities across New York State. There is no reason we can’t move forward with stronger standards in New York State now. The public needs and deserves clean water.”

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For additional information on PFAS: https://www.citizenscampaign.org/whats-new-at-cce/protect-drinking-water-from-dangerous-forever-chemicals

CCE compiled a map with Long Island levels of PFAS:

www.google.com/maps/d/edit?mid=1RjZ2tybZV5hhTI4LTfmkbHDYrn20S48&usp=sharing