Cuomo signs LIPA oversight bill

Gov. Andrew M. Cuomo signed a bill Wednesday that lawmakers say will provide the first meaningful oversight of the Long Island Power Authority.

The law, dubbed the LIPA Oversight and Accountability Act, would allow ratepayers to file complaints about the utility to state consumer-protection regulators. Currently, all complaints are fielded by LIPA and its contractor, National Grid.

The new law also will increase LIPA audits -- with one commencing immediately -- and public hearings. LIPA will have to publicly present audit findings and recommendations.

"This new law is an important step toward improving efficiency and transparency at LIPA to ensure ratepayers are protected," Cuomo said. "LIPA's customers deserve to have their complaints addressed in a timely and effective manner, and this law will help make sure the people of Long Island are better served."

The bill was sponsored by Sen. Kenneth LaValle (R-Port Jefferson) and Assemb. Robert Sweeney (D-Lindenhurst).

LaValle called the new law "landmark legislation" and a "victory for LIPA ratepayers."

"For the first time," Sweeney added, "LIPA ratepayers will be able to have complaints reviewed by the [state] Consumer Protection Division . . . and the division will be empowered to investigate complaints of any kind from LIPA customers. This is a far better alternative than asking LIPA to review its own actions."

In a statement, Michael Hervey, chief operating officer of LIPA, said, "We stand ready to comply with this new legislation and will cooperate with any comprehensive management audit."