This memorandum is submitted by Energy Coalition New York in support of the subject bill which facilitates voluntary mutual assistance programs to restore utility service.

Energy Coalition New York consists of New York State's major gas and electric utility companies: Central Hudson Gas & Electric Corporation, Consolidated Edison, Inc., National Fuel Gas Distribution Corporation, National Grid, New York State Electric & Gas Corporation and Rochester Gas and Electric Corporation. Coalition companies collectively employ more than 32,000 people, service more than 8.5 million customers and pay more than $3 billion in state and local taxes, assessments and fees. The member companies annually invest billions of dollars to make capital improvements to the electric and natural gas infrastructure located in

New York State.

Mutual assistance is an essential part of restoration, and maintaining reliability during significant outages. It is necessary in disaster scenarios to marshal skilled line workers and specialized equipment to provide assistance in restoration. Mutual assistance is a voluntary program which permits a utility to increase the size of its workforce by borrowing extra crews.

This bill aids this process by exempting employees and companies that supply mutual aid from state or local taxes or any state licensing or registration requirements. This bill provides a positive incentive to companies and employees to provide assistance. It recognizes the short-term service required and eliminates burdensome paperwork for those providing assistance.

Based on the foregoing, Energy Coalition New York respectfully requests that this legislation receive favorable consideration.