STATEWIDE —A bill amending the General Cities Law to require the establishment of recycling programs in all city parks, historic sites and recreational facilities has passed the New York State Assembly. The bill’s sponsor, Assemblymember William Colton (D-47), pointed out this requirement, which aims to reduce the costs of waste management, would apply to cities within the State of New York with a population of more than one million. If it becomes law, this recycling program would also require parkgoers to carry out the waste they generate. Moreover, the bill would allow these cities to apply for grants from the Environmental Protection Fund to support their recycling programs, explained Colton, who represents Bath Beach, Bensonhurst, Dyker Heights and Gravesend.
The NYC Department of Sanitation’s Recycling Team collects more than two thousand tons of recyclables daily, according to its website. Assemblyman Colton’s bill would ensure that these recycling programs continue, regardless of changes in policy or management.