Lawmakers To Seek Answers At Joint Hearing On Indian Point

Albany, NY – Last month, Governor Andrew Cuomo announced the planned closing of the Indian Point Power Plant located in the heart of the lower Hudson Valley. Responding to residents’ concerns voiced over the impact of the loss of locally produced power, lawmakers from the New York State Senate and Assembly have announced a joint hearing to ask questions, and find answers, to the future energy plan for New York State.

State Senator Joe Griffo, Chairman of the Senate Energy Committee, said, ” I am pleased to host a hearing with my colleagues on the planned closure of Indian Point. There are many questions that remain unanswered and I look forward to an opportunity to examine the implications of this decision. ”

State Senator Terrence Murphy, Chairman of the Senate’s Investigations and Government Operations said, “Indian Point is a major power and job producer in the Hudson Valley. It is our responsibility to fully understand how the generated power, and jobs associated with it, will be replaced. I thank Senator Griffo and my colleagues for hosting this important hearing.”

Assemblywoman Amy Paulin, Chairwoman of the Assembly’s Energy Committee, said, “The safety of the communities near Indian Point must be the top priority throughout the closure process. As the plant’s closing progresses, we must also ensure that as the highest taxed area in the state, with among the highest cost of electricity, that ratepayers do not bear the burden of this change and that communities are subsidized for their losses in taxes. This hearing will provide an opportunity to seek more information about these critical issues.”

Assemblywoman Sandy Galef said, “Indian Point has been a major industry in my district. With the agreement to close the nuclear plant within four years many questions need to be answered for residents, taxpayers, plant employees, as well as understanding energy replacement options. This hearing is key to getting the facts.”

The hearing will take place on Tuesday February 28th at 10:00am in Hearing Room C.