BILL NUMBER: S2573
SPONSOR: ORTT
 
TITLE OF BILL:
An act to amend the general municipal law, in relation to prohibiting
municipal corporations from adopting local laws, ordinances, regu-
lations, or policies that prohibit certain utility services from being
delivered based on the type or source of energy
 
PURPOSE:
To allow consumers to make informed decisions regarding their energy
choices
 
SUMMARY OF PROVISIONS:
Section 1. Amends the General Municipal Law by adding a new section 99-x
prohibiting local municipalities from taking action that would ban a
utility connection based on the type or source of energy delivered.
Section 2. Establishes an immediate effective date.
 
JUSTIFICATION:
New Yorkers pay among the highest energy rates in the nation. Heating
costs can eat up a substantial part of a family's budget, especially
during the long upstate winter months. While a clean environment is
something that we can all support, the reality is that many forms of
"green" energy are substantially more expensive, and less reliable than
traditional sources.
It is the intention of this legislation to assure that consumers have
the right to choose the energy source that is most appropriate for their
needs and their financial situation. By prohibiting municipalities from
adopting local laws that would ban certain energy sources, we guarantee
an open market with the option of more affordable products.
 
PRIOR LEGISLATIVE HISTORY:
2023-2024: S. 1270/A.3836 Referred to Local Government
2021-2022: S. 7467 Referred to Local Government
 
FISCAL IMPLICATIONS FOR STATE AND LOCAL GOVERNMENTS:
None.
 
EFFECTIVE DATE:
This act shall take effect immediately.