A.1370 (Brodsky, et al.)

S.251 (Morahan)

Summary

This bill would amend the public service law to direct the State Public Service Commission to determine the costs imposed on local and state governments for maintaining preparedness for radiological emergencies at nuclear electric generating facilities.  The bill would establish a fund, consisting of fees paid by the licensed owners of the nuclear generating facilities, that would reimburse these public entities for the expense of being prepared for nuclear incidents.

Explanation

Local government and other public entities, including fire departments, school districts, and district corporations bear much of the cost of developing and implementing the emergency preparedness plans for the six nuclear reactors operating in the State.  Preparedness includes such tasks as creating evacuation plans, training personnel, and installing and maintaining equipment to measure radiation.

This legislation would require the operators of nuclear facilities to pay fees that cover the total costs for maintaining emergency preparedness, as determined by the Public Service Commission.

A nuclear plant creates unique responsibilities for host communities. Nuclear electric generators should be financially responsible for the activities required to ensure public health and safety in the event of accidents at their facilities.

Environmental Advocates of New York supports this bill.