Requires that regular dredging of navigable waterways is scheduled in order to plan and finance to ensure the safe navigability and reliability of waterways in this state; requires a scheduled plan to be filed with DEC.
Summary
Bill A04857, known as the 'DREDGE Act', aims to amend the environmental conservation law to mandate the scheduling of regular dredging of navigable waterways in New York State. The bill emphasizes the importance of maintaining navigable waterways for public safety, environmental health, and economic stability. It proposes that both the state and municipalities develop and file a dredging schedule with the Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC), ensuring that these schedules are updated annually and made publicly accessible.
Impact
The bill will significantly impact state laws by establishing a formal requirement for the regular dredging of navigable waterways. This will necessitate collaboration between various levels of government and municipalities to create and maintain dredging schedules. The requirement for public access to these schedules aims to enhance transparency and accountability in the management of navigable waterways, potentially leading to improved environmental and safety outcomes.
Sentiment
The general sentiment surrounding Bill A04857 appears to be supportive, as it addresses critical issues related to waterway maintenance and public safety. However, there may be concerns regarding the funding and resources required to implement these dredging schedules, which could lead to discussions about the feasibility of the bill's mandates.
Contention
Notable points of contention may arise regarding the responsibilities of different levels of government in managing dredging schedules, especially in cases where waterways are under joint jurisdiction. Some stakeholders may argue about the adequacy of funding and resources to meet the proposed dredging requirements, while others may express concerns about the administrative burden this bill places on local municipalities.
Same As
Requires that regular dredging of navigable waterways is scheduled in order to plan and finance to ensure the safe navigability and reliability of waterways in this state; requires a scheduled plan to be filed with DEC.
Requires that regular dredging of navigable waterways is scheduled in order to plan and finance to ensure the safe navigability and reliability of waterways in this state; requires a scheduled plan to be filed with DEC.
Relates to permits and financial security for reclamation for mining on state-owned lands occurring below or beneath navigable waters; requires such permits to be subject to environmental quality review procedures; requires financial security to cover any damages directly or indirectly resulting from mining activities on state-owned lands occurring below or beneath navigable waterways, including, but not limited to, those resulting from collapse or water contamination.
Relates to permits and financial security for reclamation for mining on state-owned lands occurring below or beneath navigable waters; requires such permits to be subject to environmental quality review procedures; requires financial security to cover any damages directly or indirectly resulting from mining activities on state-owned lands occurring below or beneath navigable waterways, including, but not limited to, those resulting from collapse or water contamination.
Establishes special dredging account; directs $5,000,000 of sales tax collected annually be deposited therein; directs DEP to administer account and dredging program with certain requirements.
Establishes special dredging account; directs $5,000,000 of sales tax collected annually be deposited therein; directs DEP to administer account and dredging program with certain requirements.