SEQRA SERIES, PART 7 - Preparing the Final Environmental Impact Statement (FEIS) and the SEQRA Findings

Jul. 19th, 2024 11:00 am

The final steps in the SEQRA process involve preparing the Final Environmental Impact Statement (FEIS) and issuing findings.

SEQRA SERIES, PART 6 - Public Comment Period and Public Hearing

Jun. 28th, 2024 10:00 am

The next steps in the SEQRA process involve opening up SEQRA review for the project/action for public comment on the Draft EIS (DEIS), and then potentially holding a public hearing on it, too.

SEQRA SERIES, PART 5 - Scoping and Preparing the Draft EIS

Jun. 21st, 2024 12:00 pm

The next steps in the SEQRA process involve scoping and preparing the Draft EIS (DEIS). Scoping is an essential step in the SEQRA process, aimed at identifying the significant environmental issues that need to be addressed in the DEIS. This process ensures that the DEIS is concise and focused on significant environmental impacts, avoiding the inclusion of unnecessary or irrelevant information.

SEQRA SERIES, PART 4 - Coordinated Review and Determining Significance

Jun. 14th, 2024 12:00 pm

The next steps in the SEQRA process involve coordinated review of the action amongst involved agencies, and a determination of significance of potential environmental impacts.

SEQRA SERIES, PART 3 - Completing an Environmental Assessment Form (EAF)

Jun. 7th, 2024 11:00 am

The type of Environmental Assessment Form (EAF) required depends on whether the action is classified as Type I, Unlisted, or Type II. This blog provides a guide to understanding and completing the correct EAF depending on the type of project, and whether an EAF needs to be completed at all.

SEQRA SERIES, PART 2 - Classifying the Action

May. 31st, 2024 12:00 pm

SEQRA classifications fall into three categories: Type I, Unlisted, and Type II actions. Each category has specific criteria and implications for the environmental review process. This blog provides a comprehensive guide to understanding these classifications and when they come up.

SEQRA SERIES, PART 1 - What is the Purpose of SEQRA, and When Does it Apply?

May. 17th, 2024 11:00 am

In the realm of New York State environmental regulation, the State Environmental Quality Review Act (SEQRA) stands out as cornerstone legislation. SEQRA mandates that all agencies must evaluate the environmental impacts of the actions they propose or approve. This blog post aims to shed light on the purpose of SEQRA and delve into the types of actions that necessitate SEQRA review.

Simplifying Civil Litigation: New York's Legal Landscape Transformed By Passage of New Law, Allowing Affirmations In Lieu of Affidavits in Civil Litigation

Nov. 7th, 2023 12:00 pm

In a progressive move towards streamlining the civil litigation process, New York State Governor Hochul recently signed into law bills that amend the New York Civil Practice Law & Rules (CPLR) Section 2106, marking a pivotal shift in the procedural dynamics of civil litigation. Effective from January 1, 2024, the amendments apply to both ongoing and future actions, aiming to remove bureaucratic hurdles that have traditionally impeded the swift progression of legal processes.

A New Vision for NYC: How Mayor Adams Aims to Implement New Zoning Practices to Solve the City's Most Pressing Problems

Nov. 7th, 2023 11:00 am

In an historic move, New York City is setting the stage for transformative change through comprehensive zoning reforms, collectively known as the “City of Yes” initiative.[1] This approach aims to address some of the city’s most pressing issues, including the housing crisis, the need for sustainable development, and the aspiration for a city-wide economic revitalization. This blog takes a look at the three cornerstone changes that are poised to reshape the city, while addressing necessary future considerations.

NYS's New Tech Hub Designation: A Catalyst for Development and a Test for Sustainable Practices

Nov. 7th, 2023 10:45 am

Upstate New York has the opportunity to enter a technological renaissance. In late October, the federal government, authorized by the CHIPS and Science Act, designated Syracuse, Rochester, and Buffalo as a national tech hub for computer chip manufacturing (NY SMART I-Corridor), and the Southern Tier for battery technologies and the energy storage sector (New Energy New York).

Elevating Communities: Understanding EPA's Environmental Justice Programs in New York

Nov. 7th, 2023 10:00 am

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is taking significant strides in addressing environmental and public health disparities across communities with its commitment to Environmental Justice (EJ) programs. In New York, these initiatives are receiving a substantial boost, with over $61 million in funding earmarked for projects that aim to empower and protect underserved communities. Let’s delve into what these programs entail, how they are funded, and the transformative impact they can have on New Yorkers.

Solar Energy and Homeowners' Associations: How to Navigate the Hurdles to Reap the Benefits

Oct. 31st, 2023 10:45 am

Are you part of a homeowners’ association (HOA) and considering the adoption of clean, renewable energy? Going solar as an HOA or as a homeowner within an HOA may be the right choice for you. As the world increasingly prioritizes sustainable energy solutions, HOAs are also looking to harness the power of the sun.

Balancing a State's Right to Regulate Energy Policy in the Face of Federal Preemption Laws

Oct. 31st, 2023 10:00 am

In a landmark decision, the Ninth Circuit recently struck down Berkeley, California’s ambitious natural gas ban. The ruling sent shockwaves through the nation as it rekindled the debate over the role of natural gas in our country’s energy future. This decision has far-reaching implications for both environmentalists and the energy industry, shedding light on the complexities of balancing climate goals with practical energy needs.