Grants the governor power to effectuate emergency disconnections of utilities where certain laws have been violated.
Impact
If enacted, A09269 would significantly alter the state's approach to utility management and emergency responses, allowing for rapid government intervention in critical situations that could jeopardize public safety. The bill mandates that utilities must comply with the governor's orders to disconnect service when necessary. In addition, it requires the governor to submit a detailed report on emergency disconnections to the legislature, providing transparency and accountability in the use of these powers.
Summary
A09269 is a bill introduced in the New York State Assembly that amends the public service law, granting the governor the authority to effectuate emergency disconnections of utility services without prior notice when specific conditions are met. This legislation aims to enhance public safety during situations where utility violations pose immediate threats to health or safety. The bill outlines situations in which disconnections may occur, including violations of environmental conservation laws, labor laws, and local codes related to fire and building safety.
Contention
The bill has sparked discussions regarding the balance of power between state authority and individual rights. Some legislators and advocacy groups express concerns that such broad powers given to the governor could lead to potential overreach, impacting residents' access to essential services during emergencies. Critics argue that while safety is paramount, operational guidelines and checks should be in place to prevent misuse of this authority and to protect vulnerable populations that may be disproportionately affected by sudden disconnections.
An Act to direct the State Corporation Commission to determine maximum allowable fees for disconnection and reconnection charged by certain electric utilities; disconnections for nonpayment.
Establishes a standardized rate application template for utilities; provides that utilities have to provide certain information when filling out a standardized rate application.
Establishes a standardized rate application template for utilities; provides that utilities have to provide certain information when filling out a standardized rate application.
Allows the department of financial services to have additional oversight of banks and insurance companies that are not currently licensed in this state; provides penalties for violations.
Requires that any penalties for violations of housing standards or building and fire codes be assessed and imposed within fourteen days; increases certain fine amounts for violations of housing standards.
Provides that any claimant who has received certain unemployment benefits to which they were not entitled shall not be held liable for the amounts overpaid provided certain conditions exist; directs the department of labor to provide claimants who have previously been denied waivers with applications for individual waivers; repeals certain provisions of law relating thereto.
An Act to amend the Code of Virginia by adding a section numbered 56-249.01, relating to electric utilities; disconnection reports; State Corporation Commission database; annual summary.
An Act to direct the State Corporation Commission to determine maximum allowable fees for disconnection and reconnection charged by certain electric utilities; disconnections for nonpayment.