NY A06609

Establishes a new application process for reconstructing electric transmission lines to increase transfer capability, requiring applicants to file with the Public Service Commission identifying the location, description, need, environmental impact studies, and affected resources.

Requires applicants to publish notice in newspapers of general circulation in affected counties and serve applications on state agencies including environmental conservation, economic development, agriculture, transportation, and parks departments, as well as affected municipalities.

Mandates the commission chairman to determine application compliance within 30 days and the commission to decide within 150 days whether substantial public interest requires a hearing, which must be scheduled 20-60 days after that determination.

Requires the commission to find that the proposed reconstruction is needed, minimizes environmental impacts to the extent practicable, conforms to applicable state and local laws, and serves the public interest, with authority to refuse application of local laws deemed unreasonably restrictive.

Takes effect 30 days after becoming law and applies to applications filed on or after the effective date.