Help Ensure that NY's Environmental programs get the Funding they Deserve

Dear Scenic Hudson Member:

Gov. David Paterson has publicly stated his support for an expanded bottle deposit law that would increase recycling and provide a much-needed revenue stream for the state's Environmental Protection Fund.

The combination of the governor's support and the current climate in Albany makes this the best time in years to write your lawmakers to urge them to support a "bigger, better, bottle bill" that will expand the current program to include a 5-cent refundable deposit on bottled water, sports drinks, juice, and other noncarbonated beverages. The bill also will include provisions to ensure that beverage companies return unredeemed deposits to the state to fund important environmental programs.

Everybody wins if we pass this bill. We can reduce the stream of waste flowing into New York's landfills. We can improve the quality of life in our communities by reducing litter. And we can generate dedicated revenue for the environment by using all unredeemed deposits to fund crucial environmental programs like the EPF.

Timing is crucial -- Our lawmakers need to hear from you

It's up to us Hudson Valley residents to push Albany to keep critical environmental funding in the budget. Visit this page to automatically send a letter to your lawmakers urging them to support this important funding source. If you can, take a moment to personalize your letter for maximum impact.

Thanks for all you do,

Ned Sullivan
President
Scenic Hudson