“The final bill before me today is Introductory Number 585-A, sponsored by Council Members Recchia, Fidler, Gentile, Koslowitz, Rose, Williams, Arroyo, Lappin, Jackson, Brewer, Mark-Viverito, Lander, Van Bramer, Levin, Barron, Koppell, Rodriguez, Chin, Eugene, Gennaro, Ulrich, Koo and Wills. Introductory Number 585-A regulates Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs) in carpets, carpet cushions and carpet adhesives.

“Some VOCs are known to cause chronic health issues including nausea, irritation in the eyes, nose and throat, and can cause damage to both the kidney and liver. By regulating the types of carpet that are sold and installed within the City, we are able to keep New Yorkers safe from these harmful chemicals.

“These regulations will be enforced by the Department of Health and Mental Hygiene as well as the Department of Consumer Affairs through penalties ranging from $250 to $500. It is important that we approach these penalties in a balanced way, which is why we have allowed for an affirmative defense for laborers who have no ownership or control of a business that violates this legislation.

“This bill continues our Administration’s work to provide a healthy, safe work and home environment for all New Yorkers. The Green Codes Taskforce, convened by Speaker Quinn and I, conducted an exhaustive analysis of green building codes in New York City. The recommendations and policy proposals from this task force were integral to the formation of this legislation.

“I would like to thank Director of Long-Term Planning and Sustainability David Bragdon, Buildings Commissioner Robert LiMandri, Consumer Affairs Commissioner Jonathan Mintz, and Health Commissioner Thomas Farley and their staff for their work on this bill along with my Office of City Legislative Affairs. I would also like to thank Speaker Quinn and the Council for approving this legislation, as well as our partners on the Green Codes Taskforce.”