New York 2025-2026 Regular Session

New York Assembly Bill A02614

Introduced
1/21/25  
Refer
1/21/25  

Caption

Relates to strengthening of utility storm response and compliance by reviewing mitigating factors including but not limited to mitigating factors and the specifics surrounding the violation or violations.

Summary

Bill A02614 aims to amend the public service law in New York to enhance the accountability and compliance of public utility companies during storm events and other emergencies. It establishes stricter penalties for violations of regulations that affect human safety and service reliability. The bill outlines specific factors that the Public Service Commission must consider when determining penalties, such as the severity of the violation, its impact on individuals and businesses, and whether the violation was willful or recurring. Additionally, it mandates that utility companies submit emergency response plans for review and approval to ensure prompt service restoration during emergencies.

Impact

The bill will significantly impact state laws governing public utilities by increasing the financial penalties for non-compliance and requiring utilities to develop comprehensive emergency response plans. This change aims to improve the reliability of utility services during emergencies and ensure that companies are held accountable for their actions. The amendments will affect existing statutes related to public service and could lead to increased operational costs for utility companies as they adapt to the new requirements.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding Bill A02614 appears to be generally supportive among stakeholders who emphasize the importance of reliable utility services during emergencies. However, there may be concerns from utility companies regarding the increased financial penalties and regulatory burdens imposed by the bill. The lack of recorded votes or committee discussions suggests that the bill is still in the early stages of consideration, and opinions may evolve as it progresses through the legislative process.

Contention

Notable points of contention may arise from utility companies that could argue against the increased penalties and the additional regulatory requirements imposed by the bill. Concerns may include the financial implications of compliance and the potential for penalties that could be perceived as excessive. Additionally, there may be differing opinions on the effectiveness of the proposed measures in actually improving storm response and service reliability.

Companion Bills

NY S01701

Same As Relates to strengthening of utility storm response and compliance by reviewing mitigating factors including but not limited to mitigating factors and the specifics surrounding the violation or violations.

Previously Filed As

NY A02877

Relates to strengthening of utility storm response and compliance by reviewing mitigating factors including but not limited to mitigating factors and the specifics surrounding the violation or violations.

NY S01701

Relates to strengthening of utility storm response and compliance by reviewing mitigating factors including but not limited to mitigating factors and the specifics surrounding the violation or violations.

NC H789

Mitigating Factor/Pretrial Use of IID

CA SB358

Mitigation Fee Act: mitigating vehicular traffic impacts.

VA HB160

A BILL to amend and reenact ยงยง 2.2-3714 and 2.2-3715 of the Code of Virginia, relating to Virginia Freedom of Information Act; officers, employees, or members of a public body; alleged willful and knowing violations; mitigating factors to be considered.

RI H5484

Increases the penalties for public utilities for violations of the general law governing the duties of utilities and carriers.

RI S0309

Gives authority to the department of labor and training to enforce violations of the laws relating to corrosion prevention and mitigation work requirements. This act would also add civil monetary penalties for violations of those laws.

RI H5188

Gives authority to the department of labor and training to enforce violations of the laws relating to corrosion prevention and mitigation work requirements. It also adds civil monetary penalties for violations of those laws.

RI S0744

Gives authority to the department of labor and training to enforce violations of the laws relating to corrosion prevention and mitigation work requirements. It also adds civil monetary penalties for violations of those laws.

RI S0601

Increases the penalties for public utilities for violations of the general law governing the duties of utilities and carriers.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.