Late Thursday, the state Legislature passed a bill to enhance the Environmental Protection Fund over the next several years. 

A recent study showed that every $1 New York State invests protecting land and water returns $7 in economic benefits to local communities.The fund, called EPF for short, is a centerpiece of New York's conservation efforts, protecting public health, water quality, working farms and forests, revitalizing parks and waterfronts, and supporting recycling and environmental education centers, including zoos and botanical gardens.

Sen. Mark Grisanti and Assembly Member Bob Sweeney, who chair the Environmental Conservation Committees in their respective houses, sponsored the enhancement legislation. It calls for phasing in $50 million in additional revenues to the EPF from bottle bill revenues.

NYLCV joined its environmental partners in applauding the passage of this bill is now calling on Gov. Andrew Cuomo to sign the legislation into law. We also look forward to productive discussions with lawmakers and the governor's team to continue to grow the fund to more fully meet New York's environmental needs.

Expanding the EPF was one of NYLCV's top priorities of the year.