Bill > S02679

This bill modifies regulations for call centers operated by gas and electric corporations in New York state. It specifies that these corporations must provide customer assistance through phone and written communications on various topics like service initiation, emergency services, billing, and payment arrangements. The bill restricts corporations from closing call centers or moving customer service operations outside of New York state without first obtaining approval from the Public Service Commission through a public hearing process. The bill allows temporary exceptions to these restrictions in specific circumstances such as natural disasters, cyber attacks, emergencies, or when call centers are overwhelmed. When such exceptions occur, corporations must notify the commission within ten business days. For call centers with unionized employees, any work flexibility policies must be mutually agreed upon by the corporation and the labor organization. The bill also adjusts the effective date of the original legislation, changing it from immediate implementation to taking effect 180 days after becoming law. The modifications aim to protect customer service quality and maintain local job availability while providing some flexibility for corporations during extraordinary circumstances.

Agriculture and Natural Resources

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/S2679