Relates to certain leases for the exploration, development, and production of gas or oil in state forests, reforestation areas and wildlife management areas

Existing oil and gas leases face limits

The law covers existing oil and gas leases in New York state forests, reforestation areas, wildlife management areas, and unique areas. Covered leases must have been entered into on or before the related 2025 leasing ban takes effect. Assigning, transferring, or changing these leases does not count as making a new lease under that ban. Those changes cannot add acreage, expand existing wells, drill new wells, or expand or build other oil and gas infrastructure. Well-plugging and cleanup work are exceptions. Covered leases cannot continue or renew after they expire. This law takes effect at the same time and in the same manner as the related 2025 leasing ban.