Senator Andrew Lanza Named A 2008 Eco-star

NEW YORK --- The New York League of Conservation Voters Education Fund, a nonprofit organization dedicated to improving New York’s environment, has named Senator Andrew Lanza (R-24 ^th District, Staten Island) a 2008 "Eco-Star" for his efforts to ensure that all New Yorkers can enjoy cleaner air, lower greenhouse gas emissions and a better quality of life.

"Senator Andrew Lanza played an important role in advancing an environmental agenda in Albany," said NYLCVEF President Marcia Bystryn. "We look forward to working with him and all of our elected leaders on the many challenges ahead, particularly mass transit funding and smart growth."

In the 2008 legislative session, which ended last month, Senator Lanza sponsored legislation that would lift New York City’s sales tax on hybrid automobiles, making ownership of these environmentally friendly vehicles more affordable. He also spearheaded efforts to significantly reduce particulate emissions by completely banning school-bus idling. In addition, Senator Lanza sponsored groundbreaking legislation that will provide a tax credit for New York City building owners who install green roofs, which have the potential to significantly reduce energy consumption.