N.Y. Environmental Conservation Law § 48-0105: Permanent environmental justice advisory group

§ 48-0105. Permanent environmental justice advisory group.

1. The permanent environmental justice advisory group is hereby

established in the department to consist of sixteen members, as follows:

(a) Five members shall be representatives of community-based

organizations that advise or assist minority and low-income communities

on environmental matters; and

(b) Four members shall be representatives of businesses that hold

state-issued permits or otherwise operate subject to this chapter.

(c) One of the members appointed pursuant to each of paragraphs (a)

and (b) of this subdivision shall be appointed by the temporary

president of the senate, and one of the members appointed pursuant to

each of paragraphs (a) and (b) of this subdivision shall be appointed by

the speaker of the assembly. One member shall be appointed by the

minority leader of the senate and one member shall be appointed by the

minority leader of the assembly. The remaining members shall be

representatives of state or national organizations promoting

environmental conservation, researchers, educators and members of the

general public. The other members appointed pursuant to this subdivision

shall be appointed by the governor. The replacement of any member shall

be in accordance with the provisions contained in this section for

appointment of members.

2. (a) Each member of the advisory group shall serve for a term of

four years or until his or her successor is appointed. A member

appointed to fill a vacancy shall serve the remainder of the term of the

member he or she is appointed to succeed. The members of the advisory

group shall receive no compensation for their services but shall be

reimbursed for their expenses actually and necessarily incurred in the

performance of their duties hereunder.

(b) The advisory group shall select a chair from among the members.

The advisory group shall meet as frequently as necessary, but not less

than three times per year. Such meetings shall be held at such locations

as the advisory group may determine. All such meetings shall be subject

to the open meetings law. At least one meeting annually shall be held

jointly with the environmental justice interagency coordinating council

established pursuant to section 48-0111 of this article.