The New York State Environmental Bond Act, passed in the 2022 referendum, is a resounding demonstration of the public's support for environmental protection. The bond act will provide much-needed funding for various initiatives aimed at protecting and improving the environment, including clean water projects, climate change mitigation and adaptation efforts, conservation and preservation of natural resources, and environmental justice programs.

Clean water projects will receive funding to upgrade drinking water systems, protect wetlands and other important water resources, and ensure that communities have access to safe and clean drinking water. Climate change mitigation and adaptation efforts will receive funding for investments in renewable energy, green infrastructure, and other initiatives aimed at reducing the state's carbon footprint and adapting to the impacts of climate change.

Conservation and preservation of natural resources will receive funding for the acquisition of land and easements to protect important ecological areas and preserve natural habitats for wildlife. Environmental justice programs will receive funding to address the disproportionate impact of pollution and environmental hazards on low-income communities and communities of color.

The overwhelming support of the over 75% of voters in favor of the bond act, demonstrates that environmental protection is a winning issue!.

Now that the bond act has passed and funds have been authorized, the next step is to ensure that these funds are distributed and used effectively. Local elected officials will play a crucial role. They will be responsible for working with their constituents and stakeholders to determine the projects that would most benefit the local environmental priorities.

This highlights the importance of electing environmentally focused local officials. Leaders with a strong commitment to the environment will be more likely to prioritize funding for these initiatives and ensure that strong partnerships are forged with the state level leaders overseeing this project.

By voting for CGHV endorsed officials, we can help ensure that the environment remains a top priority in all future decisions and investments, and that the public's resounding support for environmental protection is reflected in the policies and initiatives that are put in place.