Bill > A08075

This bill establishes the Downstate New York Power Authority (DNYPA), a new state authority responsible for owning and operating electricity distribution services in downstate New York. The authority will be governed by a board of nine elected trustees representing nine districts and will have the power to acquire electricity distribution facilities from existing downstate utility corporations, either through purchase or eminent domain. Key provisions include the authority's ability to develop, construct, and improve electric power distribution facilities, implement energy conservation measures, set electricity rates (not to exceed existing rates), and issue up to $125 million in bonds. The authority is specifically focused on serving counties including Bronx, Kings, New York, Richmond, Queens, Dutchess, Putnam, Sullivan, Orange, Rockland, Ulster, and Westchester. The bill mandates that the authority must prioritize ratepayer interests, system reliability, environmental impacts, and economic opportunities. The authority will be subject to public service commission oversight, must make payments in lieu of taxes, and is exempt from most taxation. The legislation includes provisions for equal employment opportunity, prevailing wage requirements, and periodic legislative review. The authority will cease to exist if it does not commence delivering electric power within ten years of the law's enactment.

Government Affairs

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/A8075