Summary of New York Assembly Bill A 4508
Aims and purpose
- Bill A 4508, introduced February 4, 2025, and currently referred to the Committee on Governmental Operations, would (1) authorize municipal enforcement of the New York State Uniform Fire Prevention and Building Code and (2) address how intervenor funds are disbursed under the Major Renewable Energy Development Program.
- The bill is sponsored by Assembly Member Brian Cunningham (primary).
Key provisions (as indicated by the bill’s title and state of introduction)
- Municipal enforcement of the Uniform Fire Prevention and Building Code:
- The bill would allow municipalities to enforce the state’s Uniform Fire Prevention and Building Code within their jurisdictions. This represents a shift or expansion of enforcement authority from state-level entities to local governments.
- Intervenor funds under the Major Renewable Energy Development Program:
- The bill would establish or modify rules governing how intervenor funds are disbursed to participants (intervenors) in proceedings under the Major Renewable Energy Development Program. This could involve eligibility, timing, allocation, and administration of these funds to support participation in review and permitting processes.
Who would be affected
- Local governments and their building departments: If enacted, municipalities would gain or expand authority to enforce the state Uniform Code.
- Applicants and developers in the Major Renewable Energy Development Program: The changes to intervenor funds could influence who can participate, the ability to cover certain costs, and the procedural dynamics of siting and permitting reviews.
- Community stakeholders and residents: As intervenor funding practices change, local participants in renewable energy siting proceedings may experience changes in access to funding for participation and advocacy.
Procedural status and timeline
- Status: Referred to Governmental Operations. No additional action is listed in the provided information.
- Introduced: February 4, 2025.
- Related actions: The record shows the same referral date listed twice; the bill is related to a prior-session bill, A 6070.
Relationship to related legislation
- Related Bill: A 6070 (prior-session). This suggests there may be an established policy discussion or earlier version of similar provisions that could inform a potential amendment path or comparative content.
Sponsor
- Primary sponsor: Brian Cunningham.
Notes for readers
- The description above is based on the bill’s title and status provided. The exact text would define the scope, limitations, funding mechanisms, transition timelines for municipalities, any transition period, and the specific criteria for intervenor fund disbursement. For precise provisions, consult the bill’s full text as it advances through the legislative process.
