S8626A

A bill to amend the Public Service Law was laid aside during Senate floor consideration. The measure, sponsored by Sen. Mannion and listed as Calendar Number 1767, Senate Print 8626A, did not proceed to a vote.

The New York State Senate passed legislation on Tuesday formalizing the process for utility companies that relocate or close call centers, requiring hearings and Public Service Commission approval. Senate Print 8626A, sponsored by Sen. Mannion, passed 53-6 after floor debate centered on concerns about job losses and ratepayer impacts. Sen. Borrello, voting against the measure, warned the bill could force utility companies to move operations out of New York and reduce call center employment as companies turn to artificial intelligence. The sponsor clarified the bill does not impact emergency response capabilities, does not interfere with existing collective bargaining agreements, and allows work-from-home policies subject to union negotiation. Penalties for violations—$50,000 per consumer inquiry and $150,000 per day a call center is closed—are not recoverable expenses in rate cases, Mannion said. Sen. Martins, voting in favor, emphasized the legislation protects jobs for New Yorkers, allowing workers to earn wages and pay taxes in the state. The bill was restored to the noncontroversial calendar before passage.