The state government is facing what may be its worst fiscal crisis in 30 years. It is critical that the tremendous strides made in funding for environmental protection programs not be cut during this budget downturn.

Additionally, we will encourage the Legislature to find new financing mechanisms to preserve vital environmental programs. These programs protect natural resources that cannot be replaced.

• Maintain funding for the Environmental Protection Fund: We urge the Legislature to continue its longstanding commitment to funding environmental projects through the EPF by maintaining the EPF at its current level and to reject the governor's proposal to restructure the fund by replacing Real Estate Transfer Tax (RETT) money with new revenues.
• Pass the Bigger, Better Bottle Bill.
• Maintain Department of Environmental Conservation staffing levels.
• Maintain operating and capital spending for state park improvements.

 

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