NY A01337

Establishes a nuclear whistleblower access and assistance program through the New York State Energy Research and Development Authority, after consultation with the U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission, Public Service Commission, and Department of Labor.

Requires the Authority to maintain toll-free telephone and facsimile lines for nuclear industry employees, contractors, and advocates to report safety concerns anonymously, with strict confidentiality protections unless the whistleblower waives confidentiality in writing.

Mandates the Authority to conduct preliminary evaluation of reported safety concerns within 72 hours and bi-weekly follow-up reports, with escalation to the Nuclear Regulatory Commission for concerns involving significant public health or safety issues.

Requires publicly and privately-owned nuclear-powered electric generating facilities to establish internal whistleblower programs with senior management access for safety concerns and education on employee protections under state and federal law.

Expands whistleblower protections under Labor Law Section 740 and Civil Service Law Section 75-b to cover any public health or safety concerns at nuclear facilities (not limited to violations), exempts certain disclosures from supervisor notification requirements based on federal obstruction of justice laws, and authorizes the Attorney General to bring enforcement actions on behalf of nuclear facility employees.