S7736B

The New York State Senate passed legislation Tuesday to strengthen environmental protections for Cayuga Lake by requiring the first environmental impact statement in 20 years for mining operations beneath the Finger Lakes water body. Senate Print 7736B, sponsored by Sen. Webb, amends the Environmental Conservation Law to mandate updated reclamation plans and appropriate financial security for the Cargill Salt Mine, which has operated for more than five decades beneath the lake in Lansing. The bill passed on a 55-0 roll call vote. Webb said the measure is critical to protecting drinking water for approximately 100,000 residents and safeguarding a $3 billion regional tourism economy dependent on the lake's clean water and natural beauty. The legislation was brought forward by Environmental Committee Chair Sen. Harckham and Majority Leader Stewart-Cousins. Webb noted that while the Mine Safety and Health Administration inspects the facility for worker safety, the Department of Environmental Conservation has not regularly inspected the mine for ecosystem protection issues such as salination. The bill takes effect 30 days after becoming law.