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Bill

S 4377

Provides that the MTA shall not use cleaning materials or chemicals which may cause asthma or trigger or exacerbate the symptoms of asthma

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Leroy Comrie

S 4377 - Asthma-Safe Cleaning Materials for the MTA OverviewBill Number: S 4377 Title: Provides that the MTA shall not use cleaning materials or chemicals which may cause asthma o

REFERRED TO TRANSPORTATION
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Bill Summary · S 4377

S 4377 - Asthma-Safe Cleaning Materials for the MTA

Overview

Bill Number: S 4377
Title: Provides that the MTA shall not use cleaning materials or chemicals which may cause asthma or trigger or exacerbate the symptoms of asthma
Status: REFERRED TO TRANSPORTATION
Introduced: May 12, 2025

Purpose and Intent

This bill aims to protect the health and safety of Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA) employees and passengers by prohibiting the use of cleaning products that could trigger or worsen asthma symptoms. The legislation is motivated by concerns over the prevalence of asthma, especially among transit workers, and the potential respiratory risks posed by certain cleaning chemicals commonly used in mass transit facilities.

Key Provisions

  • Prohibits the MTA from using any cleaning materials or chemicals that are known to cause, trigger, or exacerbate asthma symptoms
  • Requires the MTA to transition to the use of asthma-safe cleaning products that do not contain irritants or sensitizers
  • Mandates the MTA to consult with medical and environmental experts to identify and approve a list of acceptable cleaning agents
  • Directs the MTA to provide training to all custodial and maintenance staff on the proper use of asthma-safe cleaning products

Affected Parties and Impacts

This bill would directly impact the health and wellbeing of MTA employees, particularly custodial and maintenance workers who are regularly exposed to cleaning chemicals. It would also benefit MTA passengers, especially those with asthma or other respiratory conditions, by reducing their potential exposure to asthma triggers in transit facilities.

The legislation could lead to increased costs for the MTA as it transitions to more specialized asthma-safe cleaning products. However, these expenses may be offset by reduced healthcare and workers' compensation claims related to work-induced asthma episodes.

Procedural and Timeline Considerations

S 4377 has been referred to the New York State Senate Transportation Committee for further consideration. If approved by the committee, the bill would then proceed to a full Senate vote. Passage in the Senate would send the legislation to the State Assembly for a parallel review process.

Given the potential public health and worker safety implications, the bill may receive bipartisan support. However, the MTA and cleaning product manufacturers could raise concerns about the cost and feasibility of the proposed requirements, which may impact the bill's progress through the legislative process.

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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