Niagara Leader

New York State Senate Republican Leader Rob Ortt, along with Assemblymen Norris and Morinello, have expressed their opposition to the Renewable Action Through Project Interconnection and Deployment (RAPID) Act in a letter addressed to the Governor. The act, which aims to streamline the environmental review and permitting process for renewable energy projects, has raised concerns among the lawmakers regarding its potential impact on local communities.

Senator Ortt emphasized the importance of local voices in deciding the placement of large-scale energy projects, stating, "Whether or not a large-scale green energy project is placed in a community should be solely dependent on the community and its residents." He criticized the RAPID Act as a means for Albany bureaucrats to override local concerns and push forward their own agenda, advocating for legislation that would empower constituents to have a say in such decisions.

Assemblyman Mike Norris echoed these sentiments, highlighting the need for public input and community involvement in determining the location of energy projects. He emphasized the importance of preserving "home rule" and preventing Albany officials from disregarding the interests of residents, stating, "We should be working to increase 'home rule' and community involvement not further chip away at it."

Assemblyman Angelo Morinello also emphasized the significance of allowing residents to voice their opinions on projects that could impact their way of life, stating, "Residents who live in the communities that will host these large energy projects should always have a say on something that could drastically impact their way of life." He expressed support for legislation that would require a public referendum on the specific locations of proposed energy projects.

The proposed bills, Senate Bill 1411 and Assembly Bill 2365, seek to strengthen local control and community involvement in energy project decisions. Senate Bill 1411 is currently under review in the Senate Standing Committee on Finance, while the identical Assembly Bill is being considered in the Standing Committee on Energy.

The lawmakers' collective efforts reflect a commitment to preserving local autonomy and ensuring that residents have a meaningful voice in decisions that could shape the future of their communities.