Establishes the profession of geology; provides for professional licensing for geologists

BILL NUMBER:S2406B

Title of bill

An act to amend the education law, the business corporation law, the limited liability company law and the partnership law, in relation to providing for the licensing of the profession of geology

Purpose

To establish the practice of geology as a licensed profession in the State of New York and to establish standards of education and experience as a prerequisite to licensure.

Summary of provisions

Sections 1 and 2: Adds "Geology" to the article heading and introductory section (§ 7200) of Article 145 of the Education Law.

§ 3. Adds three sections (§§ 7204-a, 7204-b and 7206-b) to Article 145 of the Education Law to define Geology and to establish education and experience requirements to sit for an exam

§ 4. Amends § 7205 of the education law to expand the State Board of Engineering and Land Surveying to include two geologists.

§ 5. Amends § 7207 of the Education Law to provide for limited permits to practice geology.

§§ 6 and 7. Amends § 7208 and adds a section (§ 7208-A) to allow consultants, professional engineers, land surveyors, certain contractors and state employees, educators, physical scientists and well diggers to engage in their professions or jobs when they involve aspects of the practice of geology

§ 8. Amends § 7209 to provide for the application of a seal and signature to geologic drawings and reports.

§§ 9- 24 Amends various sections of the education law, business corporation law, limited liability company law, and the partnership law to allow geologists to join with other professionals in the formation of joint enterprises.

Justification

Rendering scientific expert opinion regarding geological conditions to state or local government agencies and the public can have significant impact on the environmental quality of New York State and on the safety, property and well-being of its citizens. Geologists routinely conduct investigations and provide interpretive geologic services related to the development and protection of groundwater resources, the subsurface disposal of hazardous Wastes and the potential fur migration of contamination.

There are currently 28 states, including California, Illinois, Florida and Pennsylvania that require: licensure of geologists. This bill adds geologists to the list of professionals currently licensed by the State Education Department.

Legislative history

S.1116 of 2009-2010 S.5307B of 2007-2008, Passed Senate S.3114A of 2005-2006, Passed Senate S.2174B of 2003-2004, Passed Senate S.2383F of 2001-2002, Passed Senate S.3263 of 1999-2000 S.5996 of 1998

Fiscal implications

The State Education Department estimates the cost to implement this legislation would be $155,000, to be supported by license fees.

Effective date

This act shall take effect two years after the date on which it shall have become a law.