New York 2025-2026 Regular Session

New York Senate Bill S09344

Introduced
3/3/26  

Caption

Prohibits the issuing of major renewable energy and major electric transmission facility siting permits in designated grassland bird conservation centers including, but not limited to, three such centers in Jefferson county, one center in Saint Lawrence county, the Oak-Orchard-Iroquois center, the Washington County Grasslands center, the Finger Lakes National Forest center and the Shawangunk Grasslands.

Impact

The enactment of S09344 would directly impact the development and siting of renewable energy projects within these designated conservation areas, which may limit opportunities for renewable energy expansion in regions where ecological concerns are paramount. Proponents contend that the preservation of these habitats is crucial for maintaining bird populations and overall ecosystem health, and they argue that renewable energy initiatives should not compromise environmental protections. Conversely, some stakeholders may see this bill as an obstacle to achieving statewide renewable energy goals, particularly in the context of addressing climate change.

Summary

Bill S09344 seeks to amend the public service law by prohibiting the issuance of major renewable energy and electric transmission facility siting permits in designated grassland bird conservation centers across New York State. This proposal targets specific locations including three centers in Jefferson County, one in Saint Lawrence County, the Oak-Orchard-Iroquois center, the Washington County Grasslands center, the Finger Lakes National Forest center, and the Shawangunk Grasslands. Advocates emphasize the importance of protecting these habitats for grassland birds, which are vital to biodiversity and ecological balance.

Contention

Discussions surrounding S09344 highlight the ongoing tension between environmental protection and renewable energy development. Supporters of the bill may emphasize the necessity of safeguarding crucial wildlife habitats, while opponents could argue that restricting energy projects in these areas could hinder progress towards sustainable energy solutions. As New York strives to increase its renewable energy capacity, conflicting perspectives on land use and environmental responsibility continue to shape legislative conversations.

Companion Bills

NY A09639

Same As Prohibits the issuing of major renewable energy and major electric transmission facility siting permits in designated grassland bird conservation centers including, but not limited to, three such centers in Jefferson county, one center in Saint Lawrence county, the Oak-Orchard-Iroquois center, the Washington County Grasslands center, the Finger Lakes National Forest center and the Shawangunk Grasslands.

Previously Filed As

NY A09639

Prohibits the issuing of major renewable energy and major electric transmission facility siting permits in designated grassland bird conservation centers including, but not limited to, three such centers in Jefferson county, one center in Saint Lawrence county, the Oak-Orchard-Iroquois center, the Washington County Grasslands center, the Finger Lakes National Forest center and the Shawangunk Grasslands.

NY A03959

Requires a mitigation ratio of one acre for every acre of occupied grassland bird breeding habitat and three acres of mitigation for every acre of grassland bird wintering habitat included in a major electric transmission facility siting permit.

NY S08095

Requires a mitigation ratio of three acres of mitigation for every acre of occupied grassland bird breeding habitat and one acre of mitigation for every acre of grassland bird wintering habitat included in a major electric transmission facility siting permit.

NY S08645

Authorizes ORES to issue siting permits for battery energy storage systems for use by data centers, regardless of the expected storage or transmission capacity of such battery energy storage systems, and whether or not such battery energy storage systems will be co-located with renewable energy systems; requires data centers to submit carbon reduction plans.

NY SB670

Election Law - Authority at Polling Places, Early Voting Centers, and Counting Centers - Revisions

NY HB1001

Election Law - Authority at Polling Places, Early Voting Centers, and Counting Centers - Revisions

NY A10965

Authorizes municipalities to require a permit for the construction of a major renewable energy facility, major electric transmission facility or certain major electric generating facilities.

NY S09917

Authorizes municipalities to require a permit for the construction of a major renewable energy facility, major electric transmission facility or certain major electric generating facilities.

NY SB103

Prohibit the use of voter centers in a county.

NY S09895

Repeals the major renewable energy development program, including the office of renewable energy siting and electric transmission; and amends various provisions of law relating thereto.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.