Congressman Tom Suozzi Introduces Legislation to Promote Environmental Sustainability on Long Island

Strategic Insights -

Rep. Thomas Suozzi, D-New York, has introduced three pieces of legislation aimed at promoting environmental sustainability on Long Island, focusing on septic system replacement, geothermal heating and cooling systems, and disincentivizing the burning of recyclable paper at waste-to-energy facilities. As a member of the powerful House Ways and Means Committee, Suozzi is uniquely positioned to advance these pieces of legislation, which would amend the tax code and provide incentives for homeowners, businesses, and state governments to promote environmental sustainability. Suozzi's efforts build on his long-standing commitment to protecting the environment, having fought tirelessly to protect Long Island's environment since beginning public service in 2008.

Key Takeaways:

  • Suozzi's legislation would provide federal funding for septic system replacement programs on Long Island, allowing states to give more grant money to these programs.
  • The Groundsource Exchange Tax (GET) Parity Act would offer a 26% tax credit to companies that build and install geothermal heating and cooling systems in homes, putting it on par with the tax credit for the solar industry.
  • The PAPER Act would disincentivize the burning of recyclable paper at waste-to-energy facilities by removing the tax credit for burning recycled paper mixed with waste.
  • Suozzi's legislation would increase funding to protect the Long Island Sound by nearly 800%, support the Green New Deal, and reduce the amount of nitrogen in the Long Island Sound.
  • The legislation would also ensure that New York homeowners are not forced to pay taxes on grants they receive when updating their septic systems.
  • Various organizations, including the New York State League of Conservation Voters, Suffolk County Executive Steve Bellone, and Citizens Campaign for the Environment, have expressed support for Suozzi's legislation.

Statistics:

  • Currently, septic system replacement programs on Long Island rarely receive grants from the federally-run Clean Water State Resolving Fund (CWSRF) program.
  • Companies that install geothermal heating and cooling systems currently receive a 10% tax credit, compared to the 30% tax credit for companies that install solar industry panels.
  • The PAPER Act aims to reduce the amount of recyclable paper being burned at waste-to-energy facilities, which accounts for a significant portion of waste being incinerated in the United States.

Sources:

  • A June 15, 2021 press release from Rep. Thomas Suozzi.
  • A statement from the New York State League of Conservation Voters (NYLCV).
  • A statement from Suffolk County Executive Steve Bellone.
  • A statement from Citizens Campaign for the Environment.
  • A statement from Save the Sound.
  • A statement from Dandelion CEO Michael Sachse.