Bill > S02182

This bill modifies regulations for utility corporations and municipalities regarding estimated billing practices, establishing stricter guidelines for when and how estimated bills can be issued. The bill allows estimated bills only under specific circumstances, such as when reasonable efforts to obtain an actual meter reading have failed, when extraordinary circumstances make meter reading difficult, or when a reported reading appears erroneous. Utilities are prohibited from issuing estimated bills for consecutive billing periods, except in cases of customer non-cooperation or during a declared state of emergency. The bill requires utilities to use actual meter readings whenever possible and introduces a new requirement for utilities to submit a model for estimated billing procedures to the commission within six months, incorporating best practices and technology. Advanced metering infrastructure readings are considered actual readings, and utilities cannot charge customers for supply or delivery costs associated with non-compliant estimated bills. The commission is mandated to promulgate rules and regulations for these procedures by November 1, 2026, and utilities must take reasonable actions to obtain actual meter readings, such as scheduling alternative reading times, offering phone or electronic meter reading submissions, or providing customer reading cards. The act will take effect 180 days after becoming law.

Budget and Finance, Government Affairs, Transportation and Infrastructure

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/S2182