Englebright Co-Sponsors LIPA Accountability Measure

Co-sponsored by state Assemb. Steve Englebright, D-Setauket, a measure that would up the ante for accountability by LIPA has unanimously passed the Assembly.

The Long Island Power Authority Oversight and Accountability Act would mandate comprehensive, regular audits of its management and operations. It would also give LIPA customers a new way to log complaints.

The law would require public hearings to discuss the audits, which would pertain to issues including rates, budgets, construction costs, efficiency, and more. The first audit would begin upon signing of the bill into law.

It would also allow LIPA customers to file their complaints to the Department of State's Consumer Protection Division, and would allow the state's Utility Intervention Unit to investigate and mediate customer complaints or refer them to other agencies for further review.

"There is an ongoing need for the sunlight of public scrutiny to shine on LIPA's internal standards and procedures,” Englebright said in a statement. "By promoting transparency and accountability, this bill is a good start in making LIPA more responsive and cost-efficient."

A LIPA spokesman declined to comment on the measure. It is expected to be taken up by the Senate this week.