Regulates the closure and reduction in use of state parks, recreational facilities and historic sites

1 Co-sponsor

• Antoine M. Thompson

Title of bill

An act to amend the parks, recreation and historic preservation law, in relation to regulating the closure and diminution of state parks, recreational facilities and historic sites

Purpose or general idea of bill

This bill would require the Office of Parks, Recreation, and Historic Preservation to fully consider the consequences of ever closure or reduction in the use of any state park, recreational facility or historic site.

Summary of specific provisions

This legislation would add a new Article 13-A to the Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation Law requiring a Parks Informational Closure Report (PICR) to be published at least 120 days prior to the prior to the proposed date of closure of any state park, recreational facility, or historic site. The report would be made available to the public. Each report would include information regarding: other similar state facilities within twenty-five miles of the facility slated for closure, the economic impact of the closure, an evaluation of the use of the facility by educational institutions, whether any moneys from the federal Land and Water Conservation Fund were expended at the facility, a security and maintenance plan to be implemented upon the closure or reduction, and an evaluation on the adverse ecological impact of the closure.

This legislation would require the Office of Parks, Recreation, and Historic Preservation to hold a series of at least three public hearings within thirty days of publishing a Parks Informational Closure Report (PICR). Two of the hearings must take place within twenty miles of the facility slated for closure or reduction.

This legislation would require the State Legislature to pass a resolution authorizing the closure or reduction of such a facility prior to any closure or reduction action taken by the Office.

Effects of present law which this bill would alter

This is new language.

Justification

State Parks, recreational facilities and historic sites are beloved and important parts of communities all across New York State. State Parks and historic sites reach far beyond the land they occupy: they have become an intricate part of the social fabric of the communities they serve; impacting education, ecology and the economy. This legislation is necessary to ensure that these facilities are treated with the respect and consideration they deserve.

Prior legislative history

This is a new bill.

Fiscal implications for state and local governments

Not applicable.

Effective date

Immediately.