BILL NUMBER: S7320

SPONSOR: MAY
 
TITLE OF BILL:

An act in relation to directing certain local governments to reevaluate
resolutions adopted pursuant to the objectives of the climate smart
community program and reconsider registering with such program

 
PURPOSE:

The purpose of this bill to encourage increased participation in the
climate smart communities program by local governments which have not
reached certification after 5 years in the program.

 
SUMMARY OF PROVISIONS:

The bill directs the reevaluation of those resolutions adopted more than
5 years ago by local governments pursuant to the objectives of the
climate smart community program, as administered by the department of
environmental conservation (DEC). When reevaluating such resolution,
              

each local government shall consider the goals and objectives to reduce
greenhouse gas emissions and utilize renewable energy systems as set
forth in chapter 106 of the laws of 2019 (the Climate Leadership and
Community Protection Act). Communities would have 120 days to make their
reevaluations.

 
JUSTIFICATION:

In the ten years since the DEC began the climate smart communities
program, nearly 300 local governments have taken a pledge to increase
clean energy use and reduce greenhouse gas emissions within their commu-
nities. A series of steps and actions by them would lead to certif-
ication as a "climate smart community" and could ultimately make them
more eligible for certain funding by way of their achievements. Their
actions also contribute to the state's collective work to reduce the
effects of climate change and sets a good example for their neighboring
communities.

Regrettably, over half of the communities which adopted resolutions more
than 5 years ago have not completed the certification process.  In light
of this and in consideration of the goals and aggressive clean energy
targets established by the new Climate Law, Ch. 106, Laws of 2019, a
renewed approach is warranted. Directing the communities to reevaluate
their original resolutions and to do so in light of the State's new
standards will provide an opportunity to recommit themselves to the
program, reach certification, and create a cleaner environment for their
residents and the State as a whole.

 
LEGISLATIVE HISTORY:

New bill

 
FISCAL IMPLICATIONS:

None to the State

 
EFFECTIVE DATE:
Immediately