In recognition of Earth Day, 14 New York public policy, environmental, transportation and energy groups released today a slate of five “Super Bills” that will be environmental groups’ top priorities in the legislative session. The inclusion of a statewide Complete Streets law on the list shows the breadth of both the legislation’s support, and of today’s environmental movement.

Complete Streets has an astoundingly broad coalition of supporters—going beyond sustainable transportation groups to include public health, aging, business, labor, smart growth, and environmental organizations. “Complete Streets enable travelers to get out of their cars, and into their communities—they’re the right choice for both the environment and economic development,” said TSTC Executive Director Kate Slevin in a statement. The law would ensure major roads are designed with the needs of everyone in mind, including walkers, cyclists, and drivers.

Lawmakers receive bonus points for votes in support of the Super Bills in EPL/Environmental Advocates’ annual Voters’ Guide, the only scorecard that grades state politicians on their votes on bills that would hurt or protect New York’s air, land, and water.

The other 2011 Super Bills will expand the use of solar energy, cut the pollution that is changing the climate, and protect drinking water from the dangers of hydraulic fracturing (or “fracking”):

• Solar Industry Development & Jobs Act, (A.5713 / S.4178)
• Global Warming Pollution Cap, (A.5346)
• Water Withdrawal Permitting Program, (A.5318-A / S.3798)
• Closure of the Hazardous Waste Loophole for Fracking Fluid Disposal, (A.7013/S.4616)

Earth Day Lobby Day, held on May 2 in Albany, will focus on these five bills. To register and to learn more, click here.