On December 23rd, Governor Hochul vetoed critical legislation (S355/A903) banning the spreading of oil and gas waste on New York’s roads. Fifteen counties in New York have already banned this dangerous practice, which poses a direct threat to both people and the environment. Both houses of New York’s legislature overwhelmingly voted in favor of the ban earlier this year.

Food & Water Watch Northeast Region Director Alex Beauchamp issued the following statement:

“Governor Hochul’s decision to side with the oil and gas industry over New Yorkers is appalling. As we head into the winter season, toxic waste from oil and gas operations is routinely being dumped on roads across the state, putting people at risk. Earlier this year, both houses of the legislature overwhelmingly passed crucial legislation to protect New Yorkers from this hazardous practice. Governor Hochul’s veto can only be described as an early Christmas present to corporate polluters.”

Contact: Phoebe Galt, [email protected]