PUBLIC TESTIMONY
Testimony by Rocco J Lacertosa, CEO of New York State Energy Coalition
2:31:06
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123 sec
Rocco J Lacertosa, CEO of the New York State Energy Coalition (NYSEK), testified about concerns with the Citizens Air Complaint Program and its impact on NYSEK members who provide essential heating services in New York City. He highlighted issues with due process and the program's burden on businesses, while emphasizing NYSEK's commitment to reducing emissions independently.
- Criticized the lack of timely issuance of summons, making it difficult for businesses to defend themselves
- Highlighted NYSEK's role in adopting cleaner technologies, such as mandating cleaner renewable heating oil in NYC
- Expressed support for Intro 941 and Intro 747, which aim to add transparency and fairness to the program, and opposition to Intro 291, which seeks to increase penalties
Rocco J Lacertosa
2:31:06
Good afternoon, Chair of Tenaro and members of the Committee on Environmental Protection.
2:31:09
My name is Rocco J Lacertosa.
2:31:11
I serve as the CEO of the New York State Energy Coalition, NYSEK.
2:31:14
Our association has long served as an advocate for the oil heating industry ensuring that the policies, regulations, and issues that affect our members and their customers are dressed with urgency and foresight.
2:31:25
I'm here to discuss the serious concerns Nasdaq has with the Citizens Air complaint program and its impact on our members who provide essential services to New York City.
2:31:34
The program has unfortunately become a source of frustration and financial burden for our members.
2:31:39
NICEK represents businesses that provide vital services, including heating of critical city infrastructure such as police departments, fire stations, and nitrile campuses.
2:31:49
These are services that are essential to the safety and well-being of New Yorkers, especially during the colder months when reliable he is essential.
2:31:57
The main issue with the program is the lack of due process.
2:32:00
Our members often receive complaints months after they alleged Eidling vire violation occurred, making it extremely difficult to respond to prepare an adequate defense.
2:32:09
The drawn out process places an undue burden on businesses that are simply trying to operate within the law.
2:32:14
Timely issuances of summons is not just a matter of fairness.
2:32:17
It is essential for ensuring the businesses have a chance to defend themselves properly.
2:32:22
It's important to recognize our industry has long been committed to reducing emissions independently of this program.
2:32:28
NYSEK was instrumental in the adoption of bio heat making New York City the 1st city in the nation to mandate cleaner renewable heating oil.
2:32:36
We continue to lead in sustainability efforts, but the Citizens Air complaint program is not the driving force behind these changes.
2:32:43
It has been our industry.
2:32:45
And our partners here today that have proactively made efforts to adopt cleaner technologies and practice that have made a practices that have made a difference.
2:32:52
NICE sec imposes intro 291, which seeks to increase penalties and strongly supports intros 941 and 747.
2:33:00
Which would add transparency and fairness to assistance complaint pro programs.
2:33:04
It's concerning that some individuals have have turned the program into a full time pursuit.
