Syracuse Sun

In a recent letter to the Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC), Assembly Minority Leader Will Barclay voiced his concerns regarding the proposed amendments to New York's Freshwater Wetlands Act. These changes, which are scheduled to take effect in January 2025, aim to expand regulations on freshwater wetlands across the state.

The proposal has sparked apprehension among various stakeholders, including municipalities, property owners, developers, and businesses. The new rules intend to significantly increase the land area subject to existing wetlands restrictions by adding one million acres statewide. This expansion is expected to pose challenges for both new and current landowners.

Leader Barclay acknowledged the importance of environmental protection but raised issues with the DEC's approach. He stated, “My office regularly hears about the concerns people have regarding the DEC’s authority and involvement even in activities viewed as routine such as property maintenance or minor enhancements.”

Barclay criticized the plan for potentially hindering economic opportunities. He remarked, “The plan to expand wetland protections by 1 million acres is the latest example of New York’s uncompromising regulatory overreach. These proposed restrictions have the potential to severely restrict economic opportunities and place unnecessary requirements on our families and businesses.” He further added that while protecting natural resources is important, this extensive expansion could negatively impact residents' lives by complicating property rights and economic growth.