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PUBLIC TESTIMONY

Testimony by Andrew Saavedra, Associate Attorney at Earthjustice on Intro 1130

2:03:38

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107 sec

Andrew Saavedra from Earthjustice testified in support of Intro 1130, which would create an indirect source rule to regulate air pollution from heavy-duty vehicles associated with last-mile warehouses. He emphasized the disproportionate impact of these facilities on low-income communities and communities of color, and suggested improvements to the legislation.

Recommended that DEP regulations should closely match California's South Coast Air Quality Management District rule
Emphasized prioritizing zero-emission vehicles over "near-zero emission vehicles"
Stressed the importance of considering warehouse workers' interests in the rule-making process
Suggested including a timeline for DEP to issue a final rule

Andrew Saavedra

2:03:38

Thank you for the opportunity to testify on this important piece of legislation.

2:03:42

My name is Andrew Savedra, and I'm an associate attorney with Earthjustice, a national nonprofit law organization, and a member of Electrify New York and the Last Mile Coalition.

2:03:52

Passing and implementing Intro eleven thirty will allow New York to reduce air pollution from heavy duty vehicles associated with last mile warehouses and other high traffic facilities.

2:04:02

Last mile warehouses have been constructed in New York City at an increased rate during the past several years.

2:04:07

Compared to traditional warehouses, they generate far more truck traffic due to their connection with e commerce deliveries.

2:04:13

And they are primarily being constructed in low income communities and communities of color like Massbeth, the South Bronx, and Red Hook, whose residents then bear the brunt of truck pollution, traffic congestion, and decreased pedestrian safety.

2:04:28

Intro eleven thirty would allow New York to regulate facilities like last mile warehouses by creating what's called an indirect source rule, and we believe the legislation can be improved by providing the following guidance to DEP.

Rohit Aggarwala

2:04:39

First,

Andrew Saavedra

2:04:40

the regulations that DEP writes should match the rule created by California's South Coast Air Quality Management District to the closest extent possible.

2:04:48

That rule has resulted in a significant decrease in air pollution caused by vehicles and importantly has survived legal challenges.

2:04:55

Second, DEP should ensure that the indirect source rule prioritizes the adoption of zero emission vehicles as opposed to quote near zero emission vehicles.

2:05:04

Third, the interest of workers at these warehouses should be considered throughout the rule drafting process.

2:05:10

Finally, the legislation should include a timeline for DEP to issue a final rule to ensure that this process moves as quickly as possible.

2:05:18

Earth Justice looks forward to working with the council on this and future policies to ensure clean air and safe streets for all New Yorkers.

2:05:24

Thank you.

Alexa Avilés

2:05:25

Thank you for your testimony.

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Council Member Holden advocates for mandatory waterway usage by waterfront facilities