Environment (Coastal & Flood Protection)

Establishes a sea level rise mitigation and adaptation plan for cities with a population of one million or more to be implemented by the department of environmental conservation; requires a sea level rise vulnerability and adaptation report to be submitted.

Relates to permits granted in coastal erosion hazard areas; provides that as a condition of any permit issued in a coastal erosion hazard area, the department of environmental conservation shall require green infrastructure to help reduce stormwater runoff and mitigate coastal erosion.

This bill creates a tax credit for businesses that recycle bivalve mollusk shells (like oyster and clam shells). Taxpayers can claim a credit of up to $1,000 or 10 cents per pound of certified shells donated to DEC-permitted organizations for oyster reef restoration. The credit applies to taxable years starting January 1, 2025, and cannot reduce taxes below the minimum required amount. It directly affects businesses recycling shells who partner with DEC-approved groups restoring coastal habitats.

This bill requires owners of commercial vessels 500 feet or longer operating in New York's marine and coastal district to create and submit whale strike prevention policies by July 1, 2027. The policies must include science-based measures like speed reductions, crew training, and vessel-specific considerations to minimize collisions with whales. Vessel owners must submit these policies at least 48 hours before entering the district (no more than annually), and failure to comply results in fines of $1,000-$15,000 per day. The law aligns with federal guidelines but does not override existing vessel speed restrictions.

Establishes a sea level rise mitigation and adaptation plan for cities with a population of one million or more to be implemented by the department of environmental conservation; requires a sea level rise vulnerability and adaptation report to be submitted.