Photo Courtesy of Assemblywoman Pheffer Amato
“This increase in price is an attack on working class families and that is not acceptable,” Assemblywoman Pheffer Amato said.
By Michael V. Cusenza
Assemblywoman Stacey Pheffer Amato (D-Howard Beach) this week wrote a letter to Assemblywoman Amy Paulin (D-Scarsdale), chairwoman of the Assembly Committee on Corporations, Authorities and Commissions, calling for a hearing and investigation on sky-high Con Ed bills customers received in January.
Pheffer Amato said she has reached out and personally spoken to Con Ed leaders. During a recent phone call they attempted to explain the reason for the increase in prices, the assemblywoman noted.
“They offered a response and outlined their rationale, but it was not sufficient. This increase in price is an attack on working class families and that is not acceptable. The lack of warning and the lack of care is something I will not tolerate,” she added.
Photo Courtesy of Con Ed
Con Edison officials said that, “Current global events, coupled with increased energy consumption due to lower than normal temperatures have had impacts on natural gas and electricity costs.”
In her missive to Paulin, Pheffer Amato said she believed a hearing would be insightful and provide an opportunity for Con Ed to deliver testimony, answer questions and offer solutions.
“Due to Con Ed’s behavior, regardless of their reasoning, I am calling for a hearing and investigation by the New York State Assembly Committee on Corporations, Authorities and Commissions, of which I am a member. We have a remarkable chairwoman who is dedicated to the people and demands transparency. Through this opportunity, I believe we can further understand how this happened, how people can better prepare for the future and brainstorm cost saving solutions,” Pheffer Amato said.
Earlier this month, Con Ed released a statement on the contested energy bills.
“We understand that many of our customers have experienced recent bill increases. Current global events, coupled with increased energy consumption due to lower than normal temperatures have had impacts on natural gas and electricity costs,” the utility said. “While Con Edison doesn’t generate electricity and can’t control the cost, we know that increases may cause concern. We’re currently offering payment plan options and implementing sustainable solutions to shift our dependence away from natural gas and its volatility.”
