Bill > A00594

This bill requires every utility corporation to submit semi-annual reports to the Department of Public Service detailing their lobbying and advertising expenditures, starting March 31, 2026. The reports must comprehensively document lobbying activities, including the names of corporation representatives who engaged in lobbying, the public officials contacted, dates and times of communications, subject matter discussed, and expenses like travel and meals. For advertising, corporations must itemize public funds spent and provide details about their advertising marketing plans, such as campaign goals and objectives. The bill defines lobbying broadly, covering attempts to influence legislation, executive orders, regulations, and local laws at both state and municipal levels. Advertising is similarly defined expansively, encompassing media purchases across television, radio, internet, billboards, print media, and digital communications. The bill includes a provision ensuring that no confidential or legally protected information must be disclosed, providing a safeguard for sensitive corporate communications while promoting transparency in utility corporations' public engagement and spending activities.

Government Affairs

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/A594