Bill > A07539

This bill establishes a new Climate Action Cost Council (CACC) to provide oversight and cost-control measures for climate-related regulations in New York State. The nine-member council, appointed by various state legislative leaders, will include experts in energy, environmental conservation, labor, public health, and regulated industries. The council must approve any new rules or regulations related to greenhouse gas emissions reduction by a two-thirds vote, considering factors such as cost to ratepayers and businesses, electrical grid impact, and potential emissions reductions. The bill limits state agencies to promulgating no more than five climate-related regulations annually and requires the council to notify the public about draft regulations at least 60 days before meetings. The council must submit an annual report detailing its actions, the total costs imposed on ratepayers and businesses, and greenhouse gas emissions reductions. Additionally, the bill requires the council to hold public meetings in four different locations across New York State to inform the public about progress towards emissions limits and regulatory costs. The Public Service Commission and other state authorities must now obtain prior approval from the CACC before adopting climate-related regulations, except in emergency situations that pose an immediate threat to public safety or grid reliability. The bill aims to provide more economic scrutiny and transparency in New York's climate action regulatory process.

Agriculture and Natural Resources

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/A7539