Creates the radon task force to conduct a comprehensive study on the prevention of human exposure to radon and make recommendations to reduce and minimize exposure to New York state residents; and provides for the repeal of such provisions upon the expiration thereof.
NEW YORK STATE ASSEMBLY MEMORANDUM IN SUPPORT OF LEGISLATION submitted in accordance with Assembly Rule III, Sec 1(f)
 
BILL NUMBER: A10774A
SPONSOR: Lupardo (MS)
 
TITLE OF BILL:
An act creating the radon task force; and providing for the repeal of
such provisions upon expiration thereof
 
PURPOSE OR GENERAL IDEA OF BILL:
To create the "radon task force" to conduct a comprehensive study on the
prevention of human exposure to radon in indoor settings and make recom-
mendations to reduce and minimize exposure to New York State residents.
The scope of such study shall include: (1) Examine the need for intera-
gency coordination of public education and outreach and prevention
programs; (2) Examine the need for training, education and possible
licensing of radon services providers; and (3) Review of any other
related information that the commissioner of health may deem necessary
or relevant in carrying out such study on the dangerous of exposure to
radon in indoor settings.
 
SUMMARY OF PROVISIONS:
Section 1: Provides legislative intent
Section 2: Establishes the duties and tasks of the "radon task force"
Section 3: Establishes the members of the "radon task force"
Section 4: Fiscal implications
Section 5: Establishes the deadline for the report of findings and
recommendations of the task force
Section 6: Effective date
 
JUSTIFICATION:
Radon is a naturally occurring, odorless radioactive gas that is one of
the leading causes of lung cancer. It is estimated that between 15,000
and 22,000 lung cancer deaths are caused by radon. The New York state
department of health has identified over 25 counties as "high risk coun-
ties" for exposure to radon. It is critically important for New York
State to develop a comprehensive approach to protecting New York resi-
dents from this potential indoor health hazard.
The task force shall consist of seven members: the secretary of state or
the secretary's designee; the commissioner of health or such commission-
er's designee; the commissioner of labor or such commissioner's desig-
nee; two members to be appointed by the governor, one of whom shall be
an individual who possesses expertise in the field of radon testing and
mitigation and the other being an individual who represents the field of
real estate; one member to be appointed by the temporary president of
the senate; and one member to be appointed by the speaker of the assem-
bly. There will be minimal fiscal implications as the members of the
task force shall receive no compensation but shall be reimbursed for
their actual and necessary expenses for their duties. The task force
will then report their findings, recommendations, and any proposed
legislation necessary to implement such findings.
 
PRIOR LEGISLATIVE HISTORY:
This is new legislation.
 
FISCAL IMPLICATIONS:
Minimal - Members of the task force shall receive no compensation but
shall be reimbursed for their actual and necessary expenses in the
performance of their duties pursuant to this act.
 
EFFECTIVE DATE:
This act shall take effect immediately and shall expire and be deemed
repealed May 1, 2019.