Legislation Holding Public Service Commission Accountable to NY Ratepayers Passes Senate

Senate Majority Senators speak to media about new legislation.

The New York State Senate today passed legislation to spur change at the Public Service Commission (PSC) so they may better assist and protect ratepayers. This package includes legislation that would notify ratepayers of a proposed rate hike via text, email, and their monthly utility bill; authorize the Public Service Commission to consider non-economic damages to consumers when determining penalties for utilities; require utilities to return excess revenues to ratepayers; and establish an energy usage monitor program for ratepayers. This legislation builds on the Senate majority's efforts earlier this year to lower utility costs and protect ratepayers across New York State. 

Senate Majority Leader Andrea Stewart-Cousins said, “Utilities are not a luxury, they are a necessity that every New Yorker should be able to access and afford. New Yorkers are burdened with some of the highest utility rates in the country. With a recent uptick in proposed rate hikes, the regulatory power and oversight of the PSC continues to remain vital in protecting consumers. I am proud to advance a legislative package with my Senate colleagues to better ensure the PSC is operating in the best interests of New York’s ratepayers.”

related legislation

Senators Involved

35th Senate District

14th Senate District

41st Senate District

37th Senate District

42nd Senate District

52nd Senate District