Archives of the Mayor's Press Office

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Date: Monday, December 10, 2001
Release # 390-01

Contact: Matthew Higgins / Peter C. Fenty (212) 788-2958


MAYOR GIULIANI SIGNS BILL THAT UPDATES THE CITY'S ELECTRICAL CODE TO MODERN SPECIFICATIONS



The next bill before me is Introductory Number 741-A, sponsored at my request by Council Member Spigner. The bill will update the City's Electrical Code to modern specifications.

The New York City Electrical Code was the first codified electrical standard in the United States. However, for over three decades the Code has remained virtually unchanged. This legislation will modernize the Code to reflect the significant advancements in technology, construction and electrical installation methods of the past several decades.

For years, contractors have been forced to obtain waivers from the New York City Electrical Advisory Board in order to utilize up-to-date electrical technology. The waiver process slowed construction and increased costs. This legislation will end the need for contractors to seek permission to use modern technology, saving significant amounts of time and money.

The bill will also empower the Department of Buildings to better enforce the Electrical Code's standards and safety provisions. The legislation will increase the minimum criminal fines against unlicensed electrical work. The bill increases the fine from $250 to $500 for a first offense; from $500 to $1,000 for a second offense; and from $1,000 to $1,500 for a third and subsequent offense. In addition, the bill will enable the City for the first time to seek civil penalties of up to $5,000 against people who fraudulently apply for electrical meters.

With the massive task of rebuilding Lower Manhattan on the horizon, it is crucial for the City to do as much as possible to safely reduce the time and costs associated with new construction. By modernizing the Electrical Code, this legislation will ensure that contractors are free to use state-of-the-art technology and are not bogged down in administrative procedures that slow construction and increase costs.

I will now turn to the bill's sponsor and to any other elected officials wishing to speak on this matter.

I will now turn to the general audience.

There being no one else wishing to speak and for the reasons previously stated, I will now sign the bill.


www.nyc.gov