NY S08845

Amends Transportation Corporations Law to allow electrical conductors and telecommunications lines to be constructed in public rights-of-way in cities with populations of one million or more under franchise agreements.

Establishes compensation formula for communications line owners based on linear feet occupied in public rights-of-way, calculated using 2012 primary cable franchisee fees divided by linear feet occupied that year.

Requires owners of communications lines used for information services and telecommunications services to pay compensation to cities with one million+ population, except where existing unexpired franchise or revocable consent agreements apply.

Allows cable television franchise holders to credit franchise fees already paid against new compensation requirements, with total compensation capped at the federal law maximum.

Authorizes cities with populations of one million or more to adopt local requirements for telecommunications services regarding universal service, public safety, service quality, and consumer protections; effective 90 days after enactment.