Rosenthal Coal Tar Bill Overwhelmingly Passes New York Assembly

Assemblymember Linda B. Rosenthal

With over 80% of assemblymembers in favor, New York Assembly Bill A07854 has moved on to the New York Senate. The bill calls for the phase-out of both the sale and application of coal tar pavement sealants.

“I am proud that the Assembly has passed my legislation, which would prohibit the sale and use of pavement products containing coal tar. As byproducts of coal processing, coal tar contains high levels of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs), many of which are known human carcinogens,” said Assemblymember Linda B. Rosenthal.

“When applied on driveways and parking lots, PAHs can contaminate local water supplies. Not only do these substances jeopardize our fish and aquatic life, but PAH contamination of household dust endangers small children who could accidentally ingest it. It is now up to the Senate to join the Assembly in passing legislation that will protect both the health of our environment and the health of the people of New York State.”

Bill co-sponsors included:

Assemblymember Amy Paulin
Assemblymember Barbara Lifton
Assemblyman Dean Murray
Assemblymember Deborah J. Glick
Assemblyman Felix Ortiz
Assemblyman Fred W. Thiele, Jr.
Assemblymember Joan L. Millman
Assemblyman Mark Weprin
Assemblyman Peter M. Rivera
Assemblyman Richard N. Gottfried
Assemblyman Thomas J. Abinanti
Assemblymember Vivian E. Cook