According to Spectrumnews, the measure will allow local municipalities to take legal action against polluters for claims that had been previously barred due to the statute of limiations that had been capped at three years.
The new law also defines "an emerging contaminant" to mean any physical chemical, microbiological or radiological substance. The measure is meant to aid municipalities and public drinking water suppliers to recoup the costs of treatment and filtration as the result of a contamination.
"Every New Yorker deserves access to clean, safe and affordable drinking water," Hochul said. "By signing this legislation, which gives local water suppliers another avenue to take action against polluters and recover the costs of treatment or filtration, we are making sure that we not only hold these companies accountable but also prioritize the health and wellbeing of New Yorkers."
The measure was approved as state health officials on Wednesday moved to regulate 23 "emerging contaminants" related to PFAS in drinking water that have become a concern for environmental organizations in recent years.
Environmental Advocates NY, a group that has been pushing for stricter drinking water standards, criticized the regulations for falling short.
“Under this proposal, at least half a million New Yorkers will continue to drink water contaminated with PFAS, even though EPA has confirmed there is no safe level of exposure to some of these toxic chemicals," said Rob Hayes, the group's director of clean water. "Since this proposal does not demonstrate the clean water leadership that New Yorkers need, Governor Hochul must step in."
