NY A11594

Establishes a 9-member task force to examine and evaluate potential effects of offshore oil spills on Nassau and Suffolk counties, including impacts on businesses, residents, wildlife, fishing, and tourism.

Task force members appointed by the Commissioner of Environmental Conservation, Attorney General, Director of State Emergency Management Office, Commissioner of Parks/Recreation/Historic Preservation, State Comptroller, Governor, Commissioner of Transportation, and majority votes of Nassau and Suffolk county legislatures.

Task force directed to evaluate probability of oil spills affecting Long Island, assess commercial/legal/environmental impacts, and examine prevention and mitigation methodologies in coordination with Coast Guard and National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration.

Task force authorized to hold public hearings, request data and resources from state agencies and political subdivisions, and must submit written findings and legislative recommendations to the governor and legislature within 120 days of enactment.

Members receive no compensation but may claim actual and necessary expenses; task force chair elected from membership.