BILL NUMBER: S10669
SPONSOR: PARKER
 
TITLE OF BILL:
An act to amend the environmental conservation law, in relation to
establishing the indigenous black carbon recovery and clean energy manu-
facturing pilot program in the capital district and adjoining regions;
and making an appropriation therefor
 
PURPOSE:
To establish the Indigenous Black Carbon Recovery and Clean Energy Manu-
facturing Pilot Program within the Department of Environmental Conserva-
tion to support the recovery and remediation of black carbon pollution,
foster Indigenous-led environmental stewardship, expand advanced solar
manufacturing in New York State, and promote innovative clean energy
deployment through partnerships among New York State, participating
Indigenous Nations, research institutions, and private-sector partners.
 
SUMMARY OF PROVISIONS:
Section 1 sets forth the Legislature's findings and intent, recognizing
the environmental and public health impacts of black carbon pollution,
the importance of advancing innovative clean energy technologies, and
the critical role of Indigenous Nations as partners in environmental
restoration and economic development.
Section 2 adds a new section 19-0333 to the Environmental Conservation
Law establishing the Indigenous Black Carbon Recovery and Clean Energy
Manufacturing Pilot Program. The legislation defines key program terms,
establishes the Capital District and adjoining regions as the initial
pilot area, and provides for joint administration by New York State,
participating Indigenous Nations, and designated research, manufactur-
ing, and environmental partners.
The bill requires formal government-to-government consultation with
participating Indigenous Nations concerning land use, environmental
remediation, resource allocation, co-ownership opportunities, and long-
term governance. Participating Indigenous Nations are afforded meaning-
ful decision-making authority in project design, implementation, site
selection, deployment, and governance.
The legislation prioritizes investments in disadvantaged communities
consistent with the Climate Leadership and Community Protection Act,
requires environmental and health impact assessments before project
implementation, and mandates annual reporting to the Governor and Legis-
lature. Following a comprehensive five-year evaluation, the Department
of Environmental Conservation may expand the program statewide.
Section 3 appropriates $50 million to the Department of Environmental
Conservation to implement the pilot program.
Section 4 provides that the act shall take effect immediately.
 
JUSTIFICATION:
Black carbon is a significant contributor to climate change and a pollu-
tant associated with adverse respiratory, cardiovascular, and environ-
mental impacts. Communities historically burdened by industrial emis-
sions, including many Indigenous communities, continue to experience
disproportionate exposure to legacy pollution. Addressing these impacts
requires innovative approaches that combine environmental remediation
with economic opportunity.
This legislation establishes a pilot program that integrates black
carbon recovery with advanced manufacturing and renewable energy deploy-
ment. By supporting technologies capable of capturing, processing, and
repurposing carbon materials into high-value clean energy components,
the program seeks to advance environmental restoration while strengthen-
ing New York's clean energy manufacturing sector.
The bill also promotes the development of advanced solar technologies,
including agrivoltaic systems and next-generation photovoltaic materi-
als, helping diversify New York's renewable energy portfolio while
encouraging efficient land use and supporting agricultural productivity.
Equally important, this legislation recognizes Indigenous Nations as
essential governmental partners in environmental stewardship. Through
meaningful consultation, shared governance, workforce development, and
opportunities for ownership and economic participation, the pilot
program seeks to advance equitable partnerships while respecting Indige-
nous leadership in land management and resource conservation.
The required annual reporting, environmental safeguards, disadvantaged
community investment requirements, and comprehensive program evaluation
will provide transparency and accountability while informing future
statewide policy.
 
LEGISLATIVE HISTORY:
New bill.
 
FISCAL IMPLICATIONS:
The bill appropriates $50 million from the State General Fund to the
Department of Environmental Conservation to establish and administer the
Indigenous Black Carbon Recovery and Clean Energy Manufacturing Pilot
Program.
 
EFFECTIVE DATE:
This act shall take effect immediately.