Bill > A04958

This bill amends the Environmental Conservation Law to provide that a duly incorporated municipality in New York State that elects to be an "integrated non-participating owner" in a gas or oil well shall have no obligations to the well operator or any other owner for any charges, taxes, or fees associated with the operation of the well. Additionally, the municipality shall not be liable for any claims for personal injury or property damage related to the drilling and operation of the well, and the operator must hold the municipality harmless, defend, and indemnify it in any action for damages arising from the municipality's status as an integrated non-participating owner. The bill also deems a municipality electing this status as a "lessee" for purposes of royalty payments.