Bill > S02724

This bill modifies the public service law to require public referendums for major electric generating facility certifications, fundamentally changing the approval process for such projects. Under the proposed legislation, the state board's decision to certify a new electric generation facility would no longer be final until local voters in the municipality where the facility is proposed have an opportunity to approve or reject it through a public vote. Specifically, the bill mandates that a referendum must be held within 60 days (but not earlier than 30 days) after the board's initial decision, and the facility can only move forward if at least 51% of voters approve it. The bill defines "municipality" as a city or town in New York State, and stipulates that if the referendum passes, the board must issue a certificate for the project. Additionally, the bill specifies that any project expenses should first be drawn from an existing intervener account, with any additional financing to be handled through alternative county government law. This proposed change represents a significant shift in energy infrastructure development by giving local communities a direct vote on major electric generating facilities in their area.

Government Affairs

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/S2724