S904

The New York State Senate passed legislation Tuesday that would protect utility customers during formal Public Service Commission investigations by pausing fees, penalties, and service disconnections for 120 days after investigations conclude. Senate Print 904, sponsored by Sen. Gonzalez, passed 41-14 on a roll call vote. The bill aims to provide consumer protections when utilities face formal PSC investigations into billing practices, rates, or service quality—but explicitly excludes routine rate cases. Gonzalez argued the measure addresses an affordability crisis, noting that constituents struggle with high utility bills and face life-threatening situations during peak weather events when unable to afford heating or cooling. "Utility companies tend to be billion-dollar corporations that can continue to operate even if they are not receiving late fees or interest while they're under investigation," Gonzalez said. Opponents, led by Sen. Walczyk and Sen. Mattera, questioned whether the 120-day moratorium would encourage nonpayment and increase costs for other ratepayers. Sen. Murray compared the provision to a bank bouncing-check scenario, arguing it allows customers to dig deeper into debt before disconnection, ultimately forcing other ratepayers to cover unpaid costs. The bill received opposition from labor unions including the IBEW Utility Labor Council and the Utility Workers Union of America Local 1-2, though Gonzalez noted IBEW later indicated neutrality. The measure takes effect 30 days after becoming law.

The New York State Senate voted to reconsider Senate Print 904, an act to amend the Public Service Law, by a vote of 55 ayes. Sen. Gianaris moved for reconsideration, and the bill was restored to its place on the Third Reading Calendar following the successful motion. The bill, sponsored by Sen. Gonzalez and listed as Calendar Number 141, had previously been passed but is now subject to further consideration.

The Senate passed S904, sponsored by Sen. Gonzalez, an act to amend the Public Service Law, on a 41-19 vote. The bill, which carries Calendar Number 141, takes effect 30 days after becoming law. Voting against the measure were 19 senators: Ashby, Borrello, Canzoneri-Fitzpatrick, Chan, Griffo, Helming, Lanza, Mattera, Murray, Oberacker, O'Mara, Ortt, Palumbo, Rhoads, Stec, Tedisco, Walczyk, Weber and Weik. No floor debate was recorded on the bill prior to the vote.