Environmental Conservation

The New York State Assembly Environmental Conservation Committee is responsible for developing, reviewing, and overseeing legislation that protects and manages New York’s natural resources. The committee’s work includes safeguarding air and water quality, conserving land, supporting biodiversity, promoting clean energy and sustainable development, and coordinating the state’s response to climate change and pollution. Its primary focus is on shaping effective policies to conserve the environment for current and future generations, with special attention to oversight of state agencies such as the Department of Environmental Conservation.

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The Committee’s jurisdiction includes oversight of Environmental Conservation Law (governing pollution prevention, resource management, and land protection), Soil and Water Conservation Districts Law, Navigation Law (impacting waterways and pollution control), and relevant portions of Executive Law. It regularly addresses policy areas including climate adaptation, hazardous waste, invasive species, recycling, and the preservation of New York’s natural habitats.

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Assembly Member Deborah J. Glick serves as Chair, with a senior Republican legislator as Ranking Member. The committee includes approximately 30 members. Meetings are typically held during the legislative session, with recent examples scheduled for Tuesday afternoons; the latest membership roster and schedule are maintained on the Assembly’s official website.