Provides for the development of individual site specific disaster preparedness plans for nuclear power plants operating within 50 miles of the state's borders

Title of bill

An act to amend the executive law, in relation to disaster preparedness plans for nuclear power plants operating within the state or within fifty miles of the state's border

Purpose

This legislation would direct the New York State Emergency Management Office to undertake a comprehensive review of existing disaster preparedness plans for nuclear power plants operating in New York State or within 50 miles of the State's border and upon completion of such review, develop individual site specific disaster preparedness plans for each nuclear power plant.

Summary of provisions

This legislation adds a new Section 23-d to the executive law to authorize and direct the new York State Emergency Management Office, in consultation with nuclear power plants operating within New York or within 50 miles of the state border, to coordinate a comprehensive review of existing disaster preparedness plans and develop an individual site specific disaster preparedness plan for each such nuclear power plant inclusive of, but not limited to, specific criteria set forth in this section.

Justification

For years, local officials on the East End of Long Island have complained that disaster preparedness plans for the Millstone Nuclear Power Station did not adequately protect the public safety of the residents because evacuation plans were only required for areas within 10 miles of the plant. The recent natural disasters in Japan and the resulting partial nuclear meltdown the Fukushima Nuclear Power Plan has undoubtedly been a wake-up call, exposing potential vulnerabilities of New York's nuclear power stations. In fact, the Nuclear Regulatory commission recently stated that the nuclear reactors at the Indian Point energy Center in Buchanan, New York have the highest risk of earthquake damage in the United States. When coupled with the chance for man-made catastrophes, much like the terrorist attacks of 9/11, it is clear that New York's nuclear power stations are at risk.

It is equally clear that existing disaster plans for nuclear power plants have not adequately taken into account the likelihood of such threats. Therefore, this legislation is necessary in order to review existing plans to identify any weaknesses regarding natural disasters or terror attacks against nuclear power facilities.

It is also important that site specific disaster plans for each nuclear power plant in the State and those within 50 miles of the border are provided to insure that the public health, safety and welfare can be adequately and feasibly protected. It if is determined that there is no feasible evacuation plan for areas within fifty miles of such plants, this legislation authorizes the Governor to take appropriate action to seek closure of such plants.

Legislative history

2013-14 S.2281/A.2390; 2011-12 S.4258; 2009-10: S.227/A 336; 2007-08: S.148/A.400; 2005-06: S.88/A.43; 2003-04: S.850/A 1784; 2001-02: S.6642/A 9800

Fiscal implications

To be determined.

Effective date

Immediately.