S4644

The New York State Senate passed legislation amending the Executive Law on fire hydrant inspection and testing, with a vote of 55-4. The bill, sponsored by Sen. Kennedy, establishes requirements for annual hydrant testing to ensure operational readiness. Sen. Rhoads cast one of four opposing votes, arguing the measure improperly shifts financial burdens to municipalities and volunteer fire departments rather than private water utilities. Rhoads noted that fire departments in his district pay between $800 and $1,000 per hydrant to private water companies and contended those utilities should bear the cost of inspection and testing. Despite his opposition to the bill's cost allocation, Rhoads expressed support for the underlying concept of annual hydrant testing. Senators Martins, O'Mara, and Weik also voted against the measure. The bill takes effect immediately upon passage.

The Senate passed Senate Print 4644, sponsored by Sen. Kennedy, an act to amend the Executive Law, on a roll call vote of 58-4. Senators Martins, O'Mara, Walczyk and Weik voted in opposition. The bill, which was Calendar Number 390, takes effect immediately upon passage.