Directs the department of environmental conservation to periodically update the model environmental impact assessment form

BILL NUMBER:S1678

Title of bill

An act to amend the environmental conservation law, in relation to updates of the model environmental impact assessment form

Purpose of the bill

To ensure that new scientific knowledge is considered, on a regular basis, by the Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC), in relation to environmental impact review. This bill, in a more detailed manner, encourages DEC to periodically review its regulations that implement SEQRA and which develop the Environmental Assessment Form (EAF). The EAF is an important document that is used by lead agencies and applicants to determine if an Environmental Impact statement (EIS) is needed or not before taking a specified governmental action that may significantly affect the environment.

Summary of specific provisions

Section 1: Amends the Environmental Conservation Law section 8-0113(2) (1) to authorize and encourage DEC to update forms (EAF) prepared by the Department that are used to assist applicants and lead agencies in determining whether a proposed project may have a significant adverse impact on the environment. When updating forms, such as an EAF, the Department would need to consider changes and future trends in science and emerging issues in environmental protection and impact review. The Department, may also, specify the need to look at potential adverse environmental impacts to specific sensitive populations that are near such proposed projects, such as children or other at-risk populations, that may be affected by a governmental action.

Justification

SEQRA should be revised to ensure that DEC periodically reviews and revises the EAF so that the SEQRA review process incorporates the latest scientific theories and environmental impact review criteria. This new scientific information would be incorporated, periodically, in the EAF, which is used by lead agencies and applicants when determining if the proposed government action may have a significant adverse environmental effect.

There may be certain governmental actions that can create environmental conditions that adversely affect sensitive populations, such as children, in a manner that is more pronounced than its effect on the general public.

There are contaminates, that if released in our water, air and soil, potentially could have a heightened adverse effect on the health and healthy development of children.

For example, should a water treatment plant be built in close proximity to a school, there may be a concern that the chemicals used in such plant may significantly adversely impact the student population near such facility. This legislation should help to promote an awareness that environmental conditions created by a governmental action may adversely impact certain sensitive populations more than the general public. By periodically updating the EAF to reflect new advances in science and emerging issues in environmental impact review and protection, this new information can be incorporated and considered when reviewing impacts on sensitive populations, such as children.

Legislative history

A.615, 2000 and 2007 Passed Assembly. S.2993-B - Passed Senate and Assembly, but Vetoed (No.6740)

Fiscal implications

None.

Effective date

180 Days after it shall have become law.