Nicholas Ward-Willis Presents NYSBA’s Recommendation for an Environmental Rights Amendment to the NYS Constitution

In his capacity as an officer of the NYSBA Environmental & Energy Law Section, Nicholas Ward-Willis appeared before the NYSBA Committee on the Constitution to present the Section’s recommendation for an Environmental Rights Amendment to the NYS Constitution. Along with other representatives of the Section, Mr. Ward-Willis noted 3 other states guaranteed its residents environmental rights. Nick contended that as the interconnection between mankind and its living environment and associated impacts becomes more apparent and as there is more recognition of the impact and risks of climate change, the Section advocated for a constitutional amendment recognizing the rights of New Yorkers to clean water, clean air and a healthful environment. The Committee on the Constitution endorsed the concept and recommended the Section propose specific language.