New York State Senator Kenneth P. LaValle, at left, addresses Michael Hervey, Chief Operating Officer, LIPA  about his recently passed bill (S2581) requiring the State’s Public Service Commission to approve any LIPA rate increases over 2.5%. Hervey argued against the bill which now must pass the Assembly and be signed by the Governor. The LIPA Hearing, held April 7 at Farmingdale State College was chaired by Senator George Maziarz, to the right of LaValle. Michael Hervey addresses the committee at right.