Environment DEC
From the August 2007 issue
Governor Signs Environmental Protection Fund Bill
EPF funding protects open space in areas like the Adirondacks
Governor Eliot Spitzer recently signed legislation that will increase revenue to the state's Environmental Protection Fund (EPF) from $225 million to $250 million in the 2008-09 fiscal year, and to $300 million in fiscal year 2009-10 and thereafter. In announcing the measure, Governor Spitzer said, "The Environmental Protection Fund is a pivotal funding source for the state's premier environmental programs. It is critically important that we advance the state's comprehensive environmental agenda, which requires that we back up our ambitious policy objectives with appropriate funding."
EPF Funds a Wide Range of Projects
The Environmental Protection Fund is primarily financed by the real estate transfer tax. Established in 1993, the fund has gradually increased over time and provides money for recycling, landfill closure, urban parks, farmland preservation, smart growth, open space, water quality, pollution prevention and a range of other environmental programs administered by the Department of Environmental Conservation, the Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation, and the Department of Agriculture and Markets.
Adoption of this bill sets aside money that can be used by the Environmental Protection Fund while still requiring annual appropriations in future state budgets. Department of Environmental Conservation Commissioner Pete Grannis said: "The Environmental Protection Fund has been an invaluable tool, helping to preserve open space and working farmland, close landfills and sustain recycling programs. Governor Spitzer's decision to expand the EPF is great news for New Yorkers and underscores his green credentials."
More Information
For the comments of other state officials on the increased EPF funding, see the full press release from which this story was excerpted.
