Bill > S06810

This bill establishes the Downstate New York Power Authority (DNYPA), a new state authority designed to own and operate electricity distribution services in downstate New York counties. The authority will have the power to acquire electricity distribution facilities from existing downstate utility corporations through purchase or eminent domain, with the primary goal of providing more reliable and potentially less expensive electric service to residents. Key provisions include: creating a nine-member board of trustees elected from legislative districts, establishing a service area covering specific counties around New York City, authorizing the authority to acquire utility infrastructure, setting rate limitations to ensure affordability, and providing mechanisms for financing through bond issuance up to $125 million. The authority is structured as a public benefit corporation with broad powers to develop, manage, and distribute electric power, with specific requirements around transparency, equal employment opportunity, and periodic legislative review. The bill emphasizes that the authority's purpose is to improve economic conditions, ensure reliable power distribution, and potentially reduce electricity costs for downstate New York residents. The authority must also make payments in lieu of taxes to local jurisdictions and is exempt from most taxation, with provisions designed to protect the interests of existing utility employees and shareholders during the transition.

Transportation and Infrastructure

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/S6810