By Michael V. Cusenza
The State Senate has approved legislation that would require gas and electric corporations to provide customers with a minimum of 45 days’ advance notice before implementing any rate or service charge increases, Sen. Joe Addabbo, Jr. (D-Woodhaven), the bill’s sponsor, announced this week.
The Assembly passed the proposed law on Tuesday. So it now heads to Gov. Kathy Hochul’s desk for approval.
Under current law, rate changes can be implemented with limited notice, leaving customers little time to adjust household budgets, inquire about, or sign up for assistance programs. The bill strengthens consumer control by mandating clear and timely notification from utility providers whenever they intend to raise rates or make service-related changes.
Photo Courtesy of Sen. Addabbo
Addabbo has called the increase of utility rates without notice “unacceptable.”
“At a time when living costs keep rising, it’s more important than ever to protect consumers and ensure transparency,” said Addabbo. “Customers have seen significant rate and monthly increases in their utility bills, many without notice of these changes. As many households struggle to afford necessities, such as a carton of eggs, the burden of increased utility charges without notice for these same individuals is stressful and unacceptable. My legislation gives New Yorkers the time they need to prepare for changes in their utility bills, empowering them with information they deserve while allowing them to avoid being blindsided by sudden cost increases.
“With this legislation, we’re helping restore trust between customers and utility companies while reinforcing basic principles of fairness,” the senator added.
