NY A00527

Adds Section 121-B to the Public Service Law establishing a streamlined approval process for reconstructing electric transmission lines to increase their transfer capability when done in existing utility or public rights-of-way.

Applicants must file an application with the Public Service Commission identifying the transmission line location, describing the proposed reconstruction, explaining the need, summarizing environmental impact studies, and describing affected ecosystems, land use, visual and cultural resources.

Requires applicants to serve the application on the Department of Environmental Conservation, Department of Economic Development, Department of Agriculture and Markets, Department of Transportation, Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation, affected municipalities, and other entities the Commission Chairman deems appropriate.

Establishes a 150-day deadline for the Commission to render a final decision on the application, with possible extensions if material amendments are made or the applicant waives the deadline; if no substantial public interest review is needed, the Commission shall issue a certificate within 30 days of compliance determination.

The Commission must determine that the reconstruction is needed, minimizes environmental impacts to the extent practicable, conforms to applicable state and local laws, and serves the public interest, though the Commission may override local laws it finds unreasonably restrictive.