N.Y. Environmental Conservation Law § 23-2401

§ 23-2401. Legislative intent.\n The legislature finds and declares that the conservation of the\nstate's oil reserves will be of broad benefit to the state. Through\nutilization of modern well closure technologies, oil will be conserved\nfor the state's future. The legislature further finds that such closure\nwill provide an increased supply of high grade crude oil used for the\ndevelopment of advanced lubricants which are crucial in the promotion of\nthe use of high efficiency engines. In recognition of the potential\nenergy conservation benefits to be accrued from the closure of such\nwells, the legislature declares that a program directed toward the\nimplementation of modern well closure technologies on abandoned oil\nwells will provide energy, economic and environmental benefits to the\nstate.\n