NY S09931

Denies applications for renewable energy facilities if a municipality or political subdivision determines the project does not comply with applicable local laws and regulations concerning environment, public health, and safety.

Prohibits renewable energy applications that provide compensation or host agreements to local elected officials, government employees, or their immediate family members; requires officials with financial interests to recuse themselves from voting on project approvals.

Requires the Office of Renewable Energy Siting and Electric Transmissions to maintain a public, unredacted database of all host agreements and land contracts for major renewable energy facilities in New York State.

Allows municipalities and political subdivisions to require approvals, permits, and other conditions for renewable energy facilities prior to giving application approval, with municipalities required to hire independent attorneys to review agreements.

Prohibits renewable energy solicitation agencies from impersonating law enforcement or government representatives, communicating with harassing frequency or at unusual hours, or using communications that simulate legal or judicial process; violations are misdemeanors enforced by the Attorney General or district attorneys.