ITHACA, NY (WSKG) - A bill that would ban trash incinerators in the Finger Lakes is now law.
Governor Andrew Cuomo signed the measure on Friday. "The Finger Lakes region remains one of New York's must-see destinations with some of the most beautiful natural resources in the world. It is crucial that we protect it," Cuomo said in a statement. "We are not willing to put the region's economy, public health and quality of life at risk."
The law comes after a Rochester company, Circular energG, proposed building the state’s largest trash incinerator in the town of Romulus. The small town sits along the eastern shore of Seneca Lake.
A group of residents, business owners and local politicians have opposed the incinerator. They have said it would harm the region’s tourism, wine and craft beverage industries.
The bill passed the Senate and Assembly with bi-partisan support. The governor has 10 working days to sign or veto the bill after it is delivered to his desk. If he does nothing the bill automatically becomes law.
Governor Cuomo has said he opposes the incinerator.