Bill > A02617

This bill amends several existing laws to provide water utilities with better access to water quality infrastructure improvement funding. The bill modifies definitions of "recipient" in the public authorities law and public health law to explicitly require that water utility projects have a clear public purpose and directly benefit water system customers. It expands the Environmental Facilities Corporation's ability to provide state financial assistance payments to water utilities regulated by the Public Service Commission, with a maximum of five million dollars per year for water quality infrastructure projects focused on infrastructure replacement, repair, or environmental and public health compliance. Additionally, the bill modifies the definition of "special franchise" in the real property tax law to exclude the value of water infrastructure improvements funded through specific state water improvement programs, with the stipulation that any tax relief resulting from this exemption must be used to reduce current water rates and offset future rate increases. The changes aim to support water utilities in maintaining and improving water infrastructure while providing potential financial benefits to customers.

Agriculture and Natural Resources

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/A2617