Statement from Senator Martins & Assemblywoman Schimel on Newly Announced Funding Initiative to Protect our Drinking Water

     “We are grateful that Governor Cuomo has recognized our work to include funding in the state budget for a comprehensive groundwater study on Long Island conducted by USGS.

     Long Islanders don't get to choose where they get their drinking water; we are an area wholly dependent on sole-source aquifers.  That is why protecting our groundwater supply has been, and continues to be, of paramount importance to us.

     We, together with local stakeholders, have called for the inclusion of $3 million in the state budget.  The study would provide localities with current scientific data so that they can protect our water supply from saltwater intrusion and other threats.  

     Governor Cuomo’s announcement today calling for $6 million in funding for an island wide study, conducted by the USGS, would build upon the fundamentals of our original request and also provide those same benefits to Suffolk County as well.

     We applaud the Governor’s actions and look forward to working with him on this issue.  Drinking water is a necessity, not a luxury, and we will continue working to protect our water supply to ensure that it is safe and clean for generations to come.”