Relates to requiring approval through public referendum in the municipality in which a major electric generating facility is intended to be located prior to final determination for a final siting permit.

This bill requires that any major electric generating facility in New York must get approval from local voters through a public referendum before a final permit can be issued. Essentially, it gives residents in the area a direct say in whether such facilities can be built in their municipality. This aims to ensure community involvement in important energy decisions.

Supporters of the bill argue that it empowers local communities by giving them a voice in decisions that significantly affect their environment and quality of life. They believe that allowing residents to vote on major electric projects fosters transparency and accountability in energy development.

Critics of the bill contend that requiring a public referendum could delay or even block necessary energy projects, potentially hindering the state's progress toward renewable energy goals. They argue that this could create unnecessary obstacles in the permitting process, making it harder to meet energy demands and transition to cleaner sources of power.