NY A08957

Establishes the Department of Public Service to conduct comprehensive and regular management and operations audits of the Long Island Power Authority, with discretion to use department staff or independent contractors.

Requires audits to review LIPA's operations including construction planning, operational efficiency, debt service obligations, fuel cost adjustments, budgeting procedures, and debt covenant compliance.

Mandates the first audit be initiated immediately upon the law's effective date, the second by December 15, 2015, and subsequent audits at least once every five years, with each audit completed within 18 months unless extended for good cause.

Requires LIPA's Board to implement audit findings and recommendations unless it determines within 30 days that they conflict with sound fiscal practices, existing obligations, or safe service provision; disputed determinations must be subject to public hearings and are subject to judicial review.

Authorizes the Department of State's Utility Intervention Unit to accept and investigate complaints from LIPA consumers, mediate complaints with the authority, and refer complaints to appropriate agencies.