NY to require sewer overflow notification

ALBANY -- The state's 643 municipal sewage treatment plants will have to notify the public when they release untreated sewage into New York waterways starting next spring.

A measure signed Thursday by Gov. Andrew Cuomo will require publicly owned plants and sewer systems to tell state and local officials within two hours of discharges, as well as overflows from systems like New York City's that combine sanitary sewage and storm water.

They'll have to tell the public through electronic media within four hours.

Cuomo says New Yorkers have a right to know, which will also raise awareness of the need for upgrades.

Overflows often follow heavy rains.

Plants currently must tell state and local officials within two hours after discharges affecting public swimming areas, shellfishing areas and public drinking water intakes.

The bill was sponsored by Assemb. Robert Sweeney (D-Lindenhurst) and Sen. Mark Grisanti (R-Buffalo).

-- AP