N.Y. Governor Signs Bill Creating Environmental Justice Board

New York Gov. Andrew M. Cuomo (D) signed legislation establishing an environmental justice advisory group to focus on ensuring no group is disproportionately affected by hazards such as pollution.

The Dec. 23 signing of the environmental justice measure (A.1564/S.2385) should also ensure the state’s ambitious climate action plan takes effect as planned on Jan. 1.

The Permanent Environmental Justice Advisory Group would develop a model to be applied through all state agencies, including in permitting processes, the adoption of rules and regulations, and the acquisition or maintenance of property, according to the bill.

The bill, which takes effect ...