NY Governor Cuomo signed the Sewage Pollution Right to Know Act into law yesterday (8/9/12).  Human exposure to pathogens present in raw sewage can lead to short-term and chronic illnesses along with other health problems.  This law aims to protect against the dangers of raw sewage by giving the public the right to know when sewage is discharged into public waters.  This is especially important in NY, as it is the only state with ocean, estuarine, and Great Lakes coastline.

Excerpt from Citizens Campaign for the Environment Press Release, Thursday, August 09, 2012: Sewage overflows occur throughout NY. They contaminate beaches, bays, rivers, lakes, and streams; and can flood streets and back up into homes or other buildings. Members of the public can often be seen recreating in areas that have recently been contaminated with sewage.

“It’s unconscionable to think that a family trip to a beloved beach or fishing spot would put our families at risk to dangerous pathogens that make us sick. The signing of this monumental public health law will allow families to make informed decisions and avoid unnecessary exposure to harmful sewage pollution,” said Adrienne Esposito, Executive Director for Citizens Campaign for the Environment. “We applaud Assemblyman Sweeney, Senator Grisanti, Senator Skelos, and Governor Cuomo for their leadership in passing this critical bill into law.”

http://www.citizenscampaign.org/press-releases/release.asp?ID=127