Bill > A08780

This bill establishes a comprehensive disaster relief and climate resilience program for Central New York in response to extreme weather events, specifically a high-end EF2 tornado that struck Rome, New York on July 16, 2024, and winter weather events between January and February 2025. The bill consists of three main parts: the Central New York Extreme Weather Relief and Resiliency Grant Program, an Expanded Resilient and Ready Program, and a Property/Casualty Insurance Resiliency Incentive Program. Through these programs, the bill provides grants to various entities including small businesses, farms, homeowners, municipalities, and special districts to support storm-related repairs, infrastructure improvements, and climate resilience efforts. The grants range from $25,000 to $100,000 depending on the type of applicant, with a total allocation of approximately $75 million across different programs. Additionally, the bill encourages property/casualty insurers to offer loss mitigation tools and services, and requires them to file actuarially appropriate discounts for property owners who install storm-resistant features like tornado-resistant roofing, impact-resistant windows, and snow load prevention systems. The Empire State Development Corporation and the Department of Financial Services will administer and oversee these programs, with a focus on assisting applicants demonstrating the greatest need and promoting long-term climate resilience in the region.

Agriculture and Natural Resources

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/A8780