Bill > A02468

This bill creates the state office of the utility consumer advocate, an independent governmental entity designed to protect the interests of residential utility customers. The bill establishes that the advocate will be appointed by the governor for a six-year term and will possess expertise in utility customer issues. The office will have broad powers to initiate, intervene in, or participate in proceedings before various regulatory agencies and courts that might affect residential utility customers, including rate changes, service terms, and policy decisions. The utility consumer advocate can independently determine which proceedings to join, considering public interest and potential impact on residential customers. The office will have the authority to request information from state agencies, enter cooperative agreements, and will be required to submit an annual report to the governor and legislature detailing their activities, including proceedings participated in, estimated consumer savings, and policy recommendations. The bill defines key terms such as "residential utility customer" and "utility company" and ensures that the advocate can exercise independent judgment without fear of removal, except in cases of serious misconduct. The office aims to provide a dedicated voice for residential utility customers in regulatory and legal processes.

Budget and Finance, Business and Industry, Housing and Urban Affairs

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/A2468