Reduces electric corporations' response time for securing downed wires

2025 Regular Session Introduced by James Skoufis

New York utilities must de-energize downed wires within 2 hours and secure them within 6 hours, with clear responder communication and mandated safety plans.

PRINT NUMBER 9980A

Summary of Bill S. 9980-A (Session 2025-2026, New York)

Purpose and intent

The bill aims to reduce the time it takes for electric utilities to secure downed wires after an incident.

It requires utilities to implement safety plans that establish specific de-energization and securing timelines and improve communication with emergency responders.

Key provisions and changes

Adds a new subdivision 21-a to Section 66 of the Public Service Law.

Requirements for each utility:

Develop safety plans to promptly de-energize downed wires within two hours of notification of the location by a municipal emergency responder.
Promptly secure downed wires within six hours for events that are not emergencies as defined by subdivision 21 of Section 66.
Include in the plans clear communication procedures to notify emergency responders of expected time frames for securing wires.

The timelines differentiate between a de-energization action (within 2 hours) and securing (within 6 hours) for non-emergency events.

The act becomes law on the 180th day after enactment.

Who/what is affected

Electric utility companies operating in New York.

Municipal emergency responders who notify utilities of downed wire locations.

General public and local communities affected by downed power lines, as safety and response times may influence hazard duration.

Procedural and timeline aspects

Triggered action starts upon notification from a municipal emergency responder with the downed-wire location.

Two distinct response windows:

De-energize: within 2 hours of notification.
Secure: within 6 hours for non-emergency events.

Utilities must develop and implement the required safety plans and establish communications protocols to inform responders about expected timelines.

Effective date: 180 days after enactment for the bill to take effect.

Practical implications

Potential improvements in public safety by reducing exposure to live electrical hazards more quickly.

Requires utilities to formalize procedures, train staff, and coordinate with local responders.

May entail operational changes, resource planning, and investment to meet the two-hour de-energization and six-hour securing targets.

Compliance would be monitored as part of utility safety and reliability obligations under New York law.

Note: This summary reflects the text provided and does not include analysis beyond the statutory provisions.