Got an idea that you think we should be pursuing in Albany? What goals and what bills would you like to see advance in your local community? Maybe more green building incentives or alternative energy? The New York League of Conservation Voters wants to hear from you.

We are currently finalizing our 2008 Policy Agenda, a broad-based document that includes the many bills and goals that the League will be lobbying for at the state Capitol. We are also working on similar agendas for our local chapters, including in New York City and Long Island.

Our policy agendas spell out the League's positions and priorities on everything from energy policy to reforming the state's brownfield laws. The agendas are vital to keeping elected officials, their staffs and other organizations informed about the sentiments and goals of the League and our thousands of supporters across the state.

The League's Policy Committee, working closely with Executive Director Marcia Bystryn and Policy Director Joshua Nachowitz, has been putting the final touches on our agendas in recent weeks. Some of the issues we are sure to advocate for in the coming year are smart growth, reform to the state's power-plant siting laws and legislation to overhaul the brownfields cleanup program.

To understand how the League's Policy Agenda plays a vital role, it is important to note that there are thousands of bills introduced in the Assembly and Senate each year. Often there are multiple versions of bills proposed, with aspects that make them more or less sustainable. The League is better able to serve as your voice in Albany by having a clear, concise document with specific objectives. Last year's most important "green" legislative successes - an expansion to the Environmental Protection Fund and passage of the Hudson Valley Community Preservation Act - were integral parts of our 2007 Policy Agenda.

With the State of the State address, the opening of the legislative session and budget season right around the corner, now is the time for us to be speaking up. So send your suggestions to Policy Director Joshua Nachowitz today.

And here's to a happy new year and a greener New York in 2008!

Newsletter Issue

• Ecopolitics Monthly --- December 2007