Bill > S01535

This bill establishes new requirements and penalties for combination utility companies (defined as utility companies providing electric, gas, or steam service in cities with populations over one million) during service outages. The bill empowers the public service commission to create performance standards for utility companies during power outages and subsequent restoration, and allows the commission to impose penalties of up to $100 per violation or up to $1,000 per violation for a pattern of violations. The commission is authorized to open investigations into utility company performance during emergencies, potentially denying cost recovery for service restoration if a company fails to reasonably implement its emergency response plan. The bill also mandates that the commission establish a schedule of customer credits or rebates for service outages and missed installation appointments. Importantly, any penalties or litigation costs imposed on the utility company cannot be passed on to customers through increased billing rates. The legislation aims to improve utility service reliability and accountability, particularly in large urban areas, by creating clear standards and meaningful financial consequences for poor performance during service disruptions.

Agriculture and Natural Resources, Transportation and Infrastructure

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/S1535