Asm. Sarahana Shrestha

Represents the district where Sojourner Truth was born and won a historic legal case; the bill honors her fight for freedom and voting rights and was brought forward by young constituents in her district.

Argued that specialized courts help restore faith in democracy by ensuring votes matter and the process is protected.

Reported commercial customer who didn't receive bill for over a year, resulting in thousands in unexpected charges. Noted utility arrears increased over 1,000 percent in district, unsustainable for seniors on fixed income.

Sponsor Ms. Solages argued the bill would allow non-profit organizations and groups representing residential and small business utility customers to seek reimbursement for reasonable fees and costs associated with participating in Public Service Commission rate cases and policy proceedings, creating parity with utilities already receiving such reimbursement. Opponents Mr. Palmesano and Mr. Goodell raised concerns about uncapped costs to ratepayers, duplication of existing consumer protection agencies, lack of statutory limits on eligible intervenors, and the Governor's prior vetoes citing rate increase risks. Solages countered that other states like California have saved billions through intervenor participation and that the PSC would establish appropriate parameters.

Argued that voting no would abdicate responsibility to address the housing crisis and that it is hypocritical to claim to care about affordability while supporting credit reporting that makes life harder for those who miss rent.

The bill addresses lack of transparency in the managed care system by requiring notification of changes to model contracts with managed care providers and posting changes on the Department's website, providing critical notice to Medicaid managed care organizations and providers.