Summary of Bill S 1609

Bill Overview

Bill Number: S 1609

Title: Requires the Department of Environmental Conservation, after consultation with the Environmental Facilities Corporation and the Department of State, to submit an annual agency stormwater expenditure report.

Status: Referred to Environmental Conservation

Introduced: January 10, 2025

Classification: Bill

Purpose and Intent

The primary purpose of Bill S 1609 is to enhance transparency and accountability regarding the financial management of stormwater expenditures by the Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC). By mandating an annual report, the bill aims to provide a clearer understanding of how funds are allocated and spent on stormwater management initiatives.

Key Provisions

• Annual Reporting Requirement: The DEC is required to prepare and submit an annual report detailing expenditures related to stormwater management.
• Consultation with Other Agencies: The report must be developed in consultation with the Environmental Facilities Corporation and the Department of State, ensuring a collaborative approach to stormwater management.
• Focus on Financial Accountability: The report will include specific details on how funds are utilized, which may cover areas such as infrastructure improvements, maintenance, and environmental restoration efforts related to stormwater.

Impact

• Affected Entities: The bill will primarily impact the DEC, the Environmental Facilities Corporation, and the Department of State, as they will be involved in the reporting process. Additionally, local governments and communities that rely on stormwater management funding may benefit from increased transparency.
• Public Awareness: By making this information publicly available, the bill aims to inform stakeholders, including taxpayers and environmental advocates, about how stormwater management funds are being used.

Legislative Timeline

• January 10, 2025: Bill introduced and referred to the Environmental Conservation Committee.
• January 21, 2025: Reported and committed to the Finance Committee.
• March 11, 2025: First report calendar.
• March 12, 2025: Second report calendar.
• March 13, 2025: Advanced to third reading.
• March 18, 2025: Passed in the Senate and delivered to the Assembly, where it was referred to the Environmental Conservation Committee.

Related Bills

• S 8725: Prior session bill related to environmental management.
• S 8170: Prior session bill addressing similar issues.
• S 288: Another prior session bill concerning environmental expenditures.
• A 7881: Companion bill in the Assembly.

This summary provides an overview of Bill S 1609, highlighting its purpose, key provisions, and potential impacts on stormwater management and financial accountability within the state.