New York State Legislature

Many environmental issues are decided at the local and state level, so it is important to cultivate environmental leadership in your town, county, and state government. You can encourage incumbents and new candidates to take initiative on environmental issues by sponsoring a bill in the legislature, introducing a local ordinance, or working with environmental groups to develop a common vision for environmental protection in their district.

One of the best ways to ensure that your elected supervisor, mayor, or county and state legislators keep their campaign promises and continue to protect your quality of life is to make your voice heard through visits and letters. Your elected representatives need to hear your comments and suggestions about issues in their district – not only to help them gauge the success of their initiatives but to guide them in appropriating new funds and in initiating new legislation that reflects the needs of your community. Find out who represents you, what committees your legislators serve on and track their activity. Let them know that you are watching and tell them how to vote.