NY A04888

Prohibits commissioners and department employees assigned to render decisions in adjudicatory proceedings before the Public Service Commission from communicating directly or indirectly with parties or their representatives about factual or legal issues without notice and opportunity for all parties to participate.

Prohibits parties and their representatives in such proceedings from communicating directly or indirectly with commissioners or relevant department employees about factual or legal issues without notice and opportunity for all parties to participate.

Requires commissioners or employees who receive prohibited communications to record them and file promptly with the Commission secretary, who shall serve copies on all parties; allows parties to petition for sanctions against violating parties.

Exempts from these restrictions proceedings involving initial licenses and proceedings affecting the validity or application of rates, facilities, or practices of public utility companies.

Takes effect immediately and applies to all proceedings instituted after the effective date, with existing proceedings subject to the restrictions 90 days after enactment or upon order of the Public Service Commission, whichever is earlier.