Deforestation and bees hang in balance in NY

By Blake Jackson

New York's environmental future hangs in the balance as Governor Kathy Hochul weighs the fate of two significant bills, one targeting deforestation and another protecting bees. Both measures face last-minute negotiations and potential vetoes.

The Tropical Deforestation-Free Procurement Act, championed by Sen. Liz Krueger, aims to curtail the state's role in global deforestation by restricting contracts with companies using at-risk tropical hardwoods and sourcing products like soy and coffee responsibly. While Krueger remains optimistic about ongoing negotiations, concerns from the Business Council and operational hurdles raised by the Office of General Services cast a shadow. The senator insists the bill's demands are manageable and highlights its potential to give New York businesses an edge in a global fight against rainforest loss.

Meanwhile, the Birds and Bees Protection Act, championed by Sen. Brad Hoylman-Sigal, seeks to ban the sale of seeds pretreated with neonicotinoid pesticides, known as neonics. These chemicals, while popular, have been linked to pollinator decline and pose potential threats to human health. Despite the EPA's ongoing review and international restrictions on neonics, New York Farm Bureau vehemently opposes the ban, arguing it would cripple small farms and claiming the DEC's existing pesticide regulations suffice.

Hochul holds the key, and her decision will determine the fate of these critical environmental measures. With the clock ticking towards Saturday's deadline, both sides are scrambling to secure her approval. Krueger remains open to clarifying the deforestation bill but vows not to gut its core principles. Hoylman-Sigal expresses his willingness to negotiate, emphasizing the urgency of protecting bees and the potential for New York to lead the way in responsible pesticide use.

The stakes are high. A veto could send these bills back to square one, potentially stalling progress on vital environmental issues. However, successful negotiations and compromise could pave the way for a greener future for New York. Whether Hochul chooses to sign or veto, the outcome will resonate far beyond the state's borders, shaping the national conversation on environmental responsibility and sustainable practices.

Photo Credit: pexels-pixabay