Bill > A01453

This bill creates a new citizen advisory panel within the New York Department of Public Service to review and provide recommendations on applications for major electric generating facilities. The panel will consist of nine members: six permanent and three rotating, with specific geographic representation requirements (one permanent and one rotating member from Long Island, two permanent and one rotating from New York City, and three permanent and one rotating from upstate New York). Panel members must have at least a four-year college degree and five years of experience in engineering, science, economics, or business. They are prohibited from having current or recent ties to electric utility corporations and must be free from conflicts of interest. The panel will have 30 to 60 days to review any certificate application, during which they can request additional information, and must then prepare a comprehensive report with sections covering executive summary, project description, local input, economic and environmental analyses, areas of concern, alternative reviews, and recommendations. While the panel's recommendations will not have legal authority, their report will be submitted as testimony in hearings about the proposed facility. Panel members will receive reimbursement for necessary expenses and can be removed by the public service commission chair for cause. The bill aims to enhance public participation and provide detailed, independent analysis of proposed electric generating facilities.

Agriculture and Natural Resources

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/A1453