A9435

The Senate passed A9435, a Public Service Law amendment addressing pole attachment safety and quality, by a vote of 51-6 on January 20. The measure, sponsored by Assemblymember Magnarelli, faced criticism from Sen. Rhoads, an original cosponsor, who argued a chapter amendment significantly weakened transparency protections. Rhoads detailed how the revised bill converted pre-installation registration requirements into post-installation reporting, eliminated advance public notice of pole work, and removed specific penalty provisions ranging from $20,000 to $50,000 for violations. Sen. Ryan defended the changes, arguing the bill still accomplishes its core goal through a comprehensive reporting database and existing penalties of $150,000 to $500,000. Rhoads suggested telecommunications companies may have influenced the weakened amendment and voted against final passage. Sens. Ashby, Borrello, Griffo, Stec, and Walczyk also voted no. The bill passed with 51 affirmative votes.