NY S01232

Establishes state policy that all people regardless of race, culture, national origin, income, gender identity or expression, disability, or community of residence shall be treated equally in development, implementation, and enforcement of environmental laws, regulations, and policies.

Declares it a basic right of all New Yorkers to live and work in safe, healthful, productive, and aesthetically and culturally pleasing surroundings.

Defines environmental justice as freedom from disproportionate exposure to pollution and cumulative negative impacts from concentrated polluted sites or environmental facilities licensed by state agencies.

Prohibits depriving people of locally accessible open space or other environmental benefits due to lack of political or economic strength.

Updates language in environmental conservation law from "man" to "people" in existing state policy provisions and takes effect immediately upon enactment.