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…
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…
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…
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…
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…
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…
In a surprise move for many who closely follow of major electric generating facilities in New York, The New York State Board on Electric Generation Siting and the Environment (the “Siting Board”) voted to deny North Side Energy Center LLC’s Application for a permit to…
On August 26, 2019, Bull Run Energy LLC filed an application to construct a 449-megawatt (MW) wind energy facility in the towns of Altona, Clinton, Ellenburg, and Mooers. It is expected to include up to 139 wind turbines, together with associated access roads, an electrical collection system, meteorological towers, an…
Last week, the Town of Westerlo Planning Board determined that the Costanza Solar Project will not have a significant adverse environmental impact provided specific conditions are met, including (1) updating the Stormwater Pollution Prevention Plan (“SWPPP”) and (2) doubling the quantity of evergreen plantings in the c-100 area.
Because projects…