Assembly backs faster utility response to downed power lines to relieve volunteer responders

The Assembly approved a measure aimed at shortening the time volunteers spend guarding downed power lines and improving communication between utilities and municipal responders.

Sponsor Rebecca Kaye said the bill "puts our first responders first," describing repeated incidents in rural districts where volunteer firefighters wound up waiting hours beside dangerous downed lines until utility crews arrived. The sponsor framed the change as improved procedures and communications — not a punitive rate or staffing mandate.

Opponents warned the measure risks unintended consequences. Critics argued the Public Service Commission (PSC) already oversees utility emergency plans and that mandating fixed response windows (discussed on the floor as two and six hours in the amended text) could strain line crews, particularly where a statewide lineman shortage and retirements have reduced workforce capacity. Lawmakers also raised questions about mutual-aid arrangements and whether additional utility staffing costs could be recovered through rate cases.

Kaye and supporters said the amendment process removed proposed civil penalties and focused on requiring utilities to include non‑emergency downed-line procedures in planning and to set expectations for when paid workers will relieve municipal volunteers.

The Assembly approved the bill 104–35. Sponsors described the measure as a framework to reduce volunteer burden and improve public safety; opponents urged a formal PSC proceeding to balance operational realities, mutual aid and ratepayer consequences.

The bill directs utilities to adopt procedures and communications protocols so municipal emergency responders are notified and relieved within the timelines set in the statute, and it leaves specifics to PSC guidance and operational implementation.