Draft:Richard Schrader

Richard Schrader

Richard Schrader (born June 14, 1951) is a prominent environmental and political strategist based in New York, currently serving as the Director of New York Government Affairs at the Natural Resources Defense Council (NRDC). Known for his ability to build broad coalitions, Schrader has spent his decades-long career shaping policies in New York at both the city and state level.

Early Life and Background

Schrader’s academic background includes a degree from Fordham University and a master’s in journalism from Boston University. His early exposure to politics began at age 12, when he and his grandfather, a former Brooklyn ward heeler, distributed campaign leaflets for Robert F. Kennedy’s 1964 Senate run, igniting a lifelong interest in public service and advocacy.

Initially aspiring to a career in journalism, Schrader’s trajectory shifted toward activism after volunteering for George McGovern’s 1972 New Hampshire primary campaign. This experience catalyzed his transition from reporting to direct advocacy. Throughout the 1970s, Schrader became deeply involved in the anti-nuclear and environmental movements. Notably, he was a co-founder of the Clamshell Alliance, established in 1976 to oppose the construction of the Seabrook Station Nuclear Power Plant in New Hampshire.^{[citation needed]} The Clamshell Alliance gained national attention for its non-violent demonstrations, including a major protest in 1977 that resulted in over 1,400 arrests.

Schrader’s environmental activism extended to his work with Environmental Action,^{[citation needed]} a national advocacy group known for its “Dirty Dozen” campaign targeting legislators with poor environmental records and for lobbying on landmark legislation such as the Clean Air Act and Clean Water Act. In addition to his environmental work, Schrader served as public-affairs director for the New York Trial Lawyers Association during the 1980s, where he advocated for consumer rights and legal reforms.

This foundation in grassroots activism, coalition-building, and public advocacy set the stage for Schrader’s later influence in New York’s political and environmental landscape.

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Political Career and Consumer Advocacy

Mayoral Campaigns: Dinkins and Green

Schrader’s early political involvement included collaboration with Mark Green, a protégé of consumer advocate Ralph Nader, on efforts to establish a federal Consumer Affairs Department in the late 1970s. This partnership laid the groundwork for a long-standing professional relationship.

In 1989, Schrader contributed to David Dinkins’ historic mayoral campaign, which resulted in Dinkins becoming New York City’s first African American mayor. While William Lynch Jr. served as campaign manager, Schrader played a key supporting role, helping to build broad coalitions and address the city’s racial tensions.

Schrader’s most prominent campaign role came when he served as campaign manager for Mark Green’s mayoral bid in the 2001 New York City mayoral election. Known for his organizational acumen and grassroots mobilization, Schrader shaped the campaign’s strategy and message discipline. Despite the challenges posed by the aftermath of the September 11 attacks, Green secured the Democratic nomination, though he narrowly lost the general election to Michael Bloomberg.

During the campaign, Schrader played a central role in a high-profile episode involving Miramax co-chairman Harvey Weinstein. As election day approached, Weinstein attempted to broker a last-minute peace agreement between Green and his former rival, Bronx Borough President Fernando Ferrer, along with Ferrer's key supporters, Reverend Al Sharpton and Bronx Democratic leader Roberto Ramirez. According to Schrader, Weinstein pressured him to fire several campaign staffers whom Ferrer’s camp accused of racist behavior, even offering a job at Miramax to one of them as an incentive. Schrader refused, warning Weinstein that Sharpton and Ramirez were manipulating the situation. Despite repeated calls and demands—including a proposal to build a hospital in the Bronx—Schrader stood firm, ultimately rejecting any deal (Schrader is quoted describing Weinstein as "aggressive" during these interactions in 2001). The situation escalated to the point where former President Bill Clinton was asked to intervene, but the Green campaign, wary of being used for a photo opportunity, blocked the effort. Schrader’s steadfastness in the face of intense external pressure became a notable moment in the campaign’s tumultuous final days.

Commissioner of Consumer Affairs

Following Dinkins’ election, Schrader was appointed Deputy Commissioner of Consumer Affairs under Mark Green, and later succeeded him as Commissioner when Green left to run for Public Advocate. As Commissioner in the early 1990s, Schrader led a number of high-profile enforcement actions:

• Sports Memorabilia Fraud: Schrader’s department filed a lawsuit in 1993 against former Cincinnati Reds catcher Johnny Bench and the Home Shopping Network for misleading claims about the value of sports memorabilia. The case was settled with Bench and the network paying fines, though neither admitted wrongdoing.
• Ticket Broker Schemes: Schrader exposed “Barneygate,” a scheme in which ticket brokers exploited parents seeking tickets for children’s shows, and took action against deceptive practices in the ticketing industry.
• Tobacco Sales to Minors: He led one of the nation’s first law enforcement actions prohibiting the sale of tobacco to minors.

Dismantling the Mob-Controlled Carting Industry

One of Schrader’s most significant achievements as Commissioner was his role in dismantling the mob-controlled commercial waste carting industry. For decades, organized crime had dominated New York’s waste removal sector, inflating prices and stifling competition. Schrader, alongside Mark Green, initiated reforms and supported legislation to introduce competitive practices and encourage witnesses to testify against mob influence. These efforts laid the groundwork for the 1996 creation of the Trade Waste Commission, which regulated the industry and led to a more than 50% reduction in waste removal costs for businesses.

Schrader’s tenure in city government established him as a formidable advocate for consumer rights and public integrity, setting the stage for his later impact on environmental policy at NRDC.

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Leadership and Legislative Impact at NRDC

Richard Schrader’s tenure as Director of New York Government Affairs at the Natural Resources Defense Council (NRDC) has been defined by his pivotal role in shaping and advancing landmark environmental legislation in New York State. His approach—marked by coalition-building, public advocacy, and a focus on environmental justice—has positioned New York as a national leader in climate and environmental policy.

The 2014 Fracking Ban

One of Schrader’s most significant achievements at NRDC was his leadership in the campaign to ban high-volume hydraulic fracturing (fracking) in New York. Recognizing the environmental and public health risks associated with fracking, Schrader built broad coalitions among environmental organizations, community groups, and policymakers. He emphasized the importance of science-based decision-making, drawing on comprehensive studies that highlighted the dangers of fracking to air and water quality. Schrader described the ban as “a singular victory for our environment,” underscoring its long-term benefits for public health and natural resources.

Climate Leadership and Community Protection Act (CLCPA)

Schrader was instrumental in the passage of the Climate Leadership and Community Protection Act (CLCPA) in 2019, one of the most ambitious climate laws in the United States. The CLCPA mandates:

• 100% clean electricity by 2040
• Net-zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050
• At least 35%, with a goal of 40%, of climate investment benefits directed to disadvantaged communities

Schrader’s coalition-building skills were crucial in uniting environmental advocates, labor unions, and business groups to support the legislation. He also ensured that environmental justice was central to the law, advocating for the equitable distribution of climate investments and the reduction of co-pollutants in historically marginalized communities.

Environmental Protection Fund and Bond Act

Schrader’s advocacy extended to securing and expanding the Environmental Protection Fund (EPF), which supports land conservation, clean water, and park improvements. He was a prominent voice in efforts to double the EPF’s budget to $300 million, highlighting its dual role in environmental protection and economic development.

In 2022, Schrader championed the $4.2 billion Clean Water, Clean Air, and Green Jobs Environmental Bond Act, the largest in New York’s history. The Act allocates at least 35% of funds to disadvantaged communities, addressing longstanding environmental inequities and funding projects in climate resilience, water quality, and land conservation[17].

PFAS-Free New York Coalition

Recognizing the dangers of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), Schrader formed and led the PFAS-Free New York coalition. This diverse alliance of advocates, community members, and experts has pushed for comprehensive legislation to eliminate PFAS from consumer products, personal care items, and industrial discharges. Schrader’s leadership has been central to advancing bills that target PFAS contamination in water systems and household goods, reflecting his commitment to public health and environmental safety[18].

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Table: Key Legislative Achievements Led by Schrader at NRDC

Year	Legislation/Initiative	Key Provisions & Impact
2014	Fracking Ban	Prohibited high-volume hydraulic fracturing statewide; protected air, water, and public health.
2019	CLCPA	Mandated 100% clean energy by 2040; net-zero emissions by 2050; climate justice for disadvantaged areas.
2022	Environmental Bond Act	$4.2B for climate, water, and land projects; at least 35% of funds for disadvantaged communities[17]
2010s–2020s	Environmental Protection Fund	Secured and expanded funding for conservation, clean water, and parks[16]
2020s	PFAS-Free NY Coalition	Advanced bans on PFAS in consumer products and industrial discharges[18]

Ongoing Environmental Campaigns

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NY HEAT Act: Aligning Utilities with Climate and Affordability Goals

Schrader has been a leading advocate for the New York Home Energy Affordable Transition (NY HEAT) Act, a transformative bill designed to modernize the state’s utility regulations in line with the CLCPA. The NY HEAT Act seeks to:

• Eliminate the “100-foot rule,” which requires utilities to subsidize new gas hookups, costing ratepayers approximately $200 million annually[19].
• Cap utility bills for low-income households, ensuring no family spends more than 6% of its income on energy[20].
• End ratepayer subsidies for gas expansion, facilitating a transition to clean energy and reducing fossil fuel dependence[21].

Despite passing the Senate, the NY HEAT Act has faced hurdles in the Assembly and was excluded from the 2024 and 2025 executive budgets, prompting Schrader and NRDC to continue pressing for its adoption as essential to both climate progress and energy affordability[22].

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Packaging Reduction and Recycling Infrastructure Act

Schrader has championed the Packaging Reduction and Recycling Infrastructure Act, which aims to:

• Reduce plastic packaging by 30% over 12 years.
• Achieve a 70% recycling rate for all packaging materials.
• Ban toxic substances like PFAS in packaging.
• Prohibit chemical recycling from being classified as legitimate recycling[23].

Although the bill passed the Senate, it did not advance in the Assembly in 2024. Schrader continues to advocate for its passage, emphasizing the need to shift responsibility for waste from municipalities and taxpayers to producers.

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Good Food New York Bill

Schrader has been a key advocate for the Good Food New York bill, which allows municipalities to prioritize food procurement based on values such as local sourcing, nutrition, environmental sustainability, and racial equity. The bill passed both legislative chambers in 2024, though it was vetoed by the governor later that year. Lawmakers have pledged to reintroduce the bill, with Schrader and NRDC continuing to support efforts to promote sustainable and equitable food systems[24].

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Fossil Fuel Divestment and Pipeline Opposition

Schrader’s advocacy has extended to fossil fuel divestment, supporting the Fossil Fuel Divestment Act and urging the New York State Common Retirement Fund to divest from coal, oil, and gas producers. His efforts contributed to the 2020 announcement by Comptroller Thomas DiNapoli to divest the $225 billion fund from the riskiest fossil fuel companies by 2025 and achieve a net-zero portfolio by 2040[25].

Schrader was also instrumental in the successful opposition to the Williams Pipeline and the prohibition of offshore drilling in the Atlantic Ocean, aligning with public sentiment and environmental priorities to protect New York’s coastal and marine ecosystems[26].

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Recognition, Influence, and Legacy

Richard Schrader’s sustained impact on New York’s environmental and political landscape has been widely recognized by peers, policymakers, and the media. Notably, City & State has repeatedly included Schrader in its annual “Energy & Environment Power” lists, highlighting his status as one of the state’s most influential figures in shaping environmental policy. In both 2019 and 2020, Schrader was featured among New York’s top energy and environment power players, alongside other NRDC leaders, underscoring his central role in advancing ambitious climate and sustainability initiatives[27][28].

Hallmarks of Schrader’s Approach

Schrader’s effectiveness as an advocate is rooted in several defining strategies:

• Coalition-Building: He has consistently brought together diverse stakeholders—environmental groups, labor unions, business leaders, and community organizations—to build broad support for legislative action. This approach has been pivotal in passing complex, high-impact laws such as the CLCPA and the 2014 fracking ban.
• Public Advocacy: Schrader is known for his ability to communicate the stakes of environmental policy to the public and lawmakers alike. He has led campaigns that mobilize grassroots support, elevate scientific evidence, and keep environmental justice at the forefront of policy debates.
• Focus on Environmental Justice: A core tenet of Schrader’s work is ensuring that climate investments and environmental protections reach New York’s most disadvantaged communities. Through legislation like the CLCPA and the Environmental Bond Act, he has helped direct substantial resources to areas historically burdened by pollution and underinvestment[17].

Commitment to Consumer Protection and Progressive Reform

Schrader’s career is distinguished by a long-standing commitment to consumer rights and progressive policy reform. From his early days as Commissioner of Consumer Affairs—where he tackled fraud, mob influence, and predatory business practices—to his leadership at NRDC, Schrader has consistently prioritized the public interest. His advocacy has resulted in:

• Stronger consumer protections in New York City
• Landmark environmental laws that serve as models for other states
• A legacy of integrating environmental sustainability with social and economic justice

Broader Influence

Schrader’s influence extends beyond individual legislative victories. His coalition-driven, justice-focused approach has helped set a new standard for environmental advocacy in New York and beyond. By ensuring that climate and environmental policies are both ambitious and equitable, Schrader has contributed to a broader movement for sustainability and justice—one that continues to shape the state’s future policy agenda.

As New York faces ongoing challenges in climate adaptation, energy transition, and environmental health, Schrader’s legacy of coalition-building and principled advocacy remains a guiding force for the next generation of environmental leaders.

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References

1. "Rich Schrader, Director, New York Government Affairs, Center for Campaigns & Organizing". www.nrdc.org. 2025-06-06.
2. "Who's Running Green? His Man Is Schrader, Back From the Brink". Observer. 2001-03-26.
3. "History – Clamshell Alliance". Retrieved 2025-06-14.
4. "About EA | Environmental Action". Environmental Action. Archived from the original on 2016-01-30.
5. "Weinstein's United Way". Observer. 2001-11-19.
6. "Green, Mark". New York Magazine. 2011-08-25. Retrieved 2025-06-14..
7. Archives, L. A. Times (1993-10-08). "With Bench, There Was a Catch : Memorabilia: Former Cincinnati catcher and Home Shopping Network charged with duping consumers". Los Angeles Times. Retrieved 2025-06-14.
8. Jacobs, James B. (1999). Gotham Unbound. New York and London: New York University Press. p. 91. ISBN 0-8147-4246-7.
9. Raab, Selwyn. "City Moves to Break Mob Hold on Trash Hauling." The New York Times, July 29, 1995. Archived from the original on 2016-03-04. https://web.archive.org/web/20160304025913/https://www.nytimes.com/1995/07/29/nyregion/city-moves-to-break-mob-hold-on-trash-hauling.html
10. "Advocates & Mark Ruffalo Praise Fracking Ban in NYS Budget as Momentous Achievement | Sierra Club". www.sierraclub.org.
11. "Fracking Victory, Ivory Ban, and More Solar Energy: A Year of Environmental Success in New York State". www.nrdc.org. 2015-01-12.
12. "Separating Fact from Fiction: Setting the Record Straight on New York's Climate Law". www.nrdc.org. 2024-05-06.
13. "Governor Hochul Joins U.S. Climate Alliance Governors to Accelerate Building Decarbonization | Governor Kathy Hochul". www.governor.ny.gov.
14. "Big Win for New Yorkers: Governor Proposes to Double the Size of the Environmental Protection Fund". www.nrdc.org. 2016-01-06.
15. "Governor Hochul Announces Environmental Bond Act." Governor’s Office, New York State. https://www.governor.ny.gov/news/governor-hochul-announces-environmental-bond-act (published 2022-04-09).
16. "PFAS-Free New York Coalition Launches." NRDC. https://www.nrdc.org/experts/erik-olson/pfas-free-new-york-coalition-launches (published 2022-03-15).
17. "NY HEAT Act and 100-Foot Rule." Harlem World Magazine. https://www.harlemworldmagazine.com/ny-heat-act-and-100-foot-rule/ (published 2024-03-21).
18. "NY HEAT Act Would Protect New Yorkers’ Energy Bills." NRDC. https://www.nrdc.org/experts/rich-schraeder/ny-heat-act-would-protect-new-yorkers-energy-bills (published 2023-02-28).
19. "NY HEAT Act Bill." New York State Senate. https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2023/S2016 (accessed 2025-06-14).
20. "NY HEAT Act Passes Senate." WAMC Northeast Public Radio. https://www.wamc.org/news/2024-03-13/ny-heat-act-passes-senate (published 2024-03-13).
21. "Packaging Reduction and Recycling Infrastructure Act." NRDC. https://www.nrdc.org/experts/rich-schraeder/packaging-reduction-and-recycling-infrastructure-act (published 2024-04-18).
22. "Good Food NY Bill Passes Legislature." NRDC. https://www.nrdc.org/experts/rich-schraeder/good-food-ny-bill-passes-legislature (published 2024-06-07).
23. "Fossil Fuel Divestment Act." New York State Senate. https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2019/S2126 (accessed 2025-06-14).
24. "Williams Pipeline Denied." NRDC. https://www.nrdc.org/experts/rich-schraeder/williams-pipeline-denied (published 2020-05-15).
25. "2020 Energy & Environment Power 100." City & State New York. https://www.cityandstateny.com/power-lists/2020/09/2020-energy-environment-power-100/175089/ (published 2020-09-21).
26. "2019 Energy & Environment Power 100." City & State New York. https://www.cityandstateny.com/power-lists/2019/09/2019-energy-environment-power-100/176219/ (published 2019-09-23).