N.Y. Pub. Health Law § 1388

§ 1388. Powers of the commissioner; emergencies. In case of great and\nimminent peril to the health of the general public from such hazards as\nmay be identified as resulting from exposure to toxic substances\nemanating from landfills, the commissioner may declare the existence of\nan emergency and take such measures and do such acts as he may deem\nreasonably necessary and proper for the preservation and protection of\nthe public health.\n