Bill > A04105

This bill establishes new minimum standards for utility payment plans, requiring the public service commission to create guidelines that protect customers experiencing financial hardship. The bill mandates that utility companies offer flexible payment agreements that consider an individual's household income, ability to pay, and special circumstances when determining plan terms. Customers can now request payment plans with installments as low as $10 per month and no down payment if they can demonstrate financial need. The bill outlines specific eligibility criteria, which include participation in various assistance programs such as SNAP, SSI, Medicaid, and others. Utility companies must provide customers at least 21 days to pay bills, cannot withdraw automatic payments before the due date, and cannot terminate service for customers enrolled in a residential payment plan except under specific circumstances like safety emergencies or violation of utility company rules. Additionally, if utility rates increase significantly while a customer is on a payment plan, the customer must be offered the option to spread the rate change proportionally over the remaining payment period, with a detailed explanation of the change provided by the utility company.

Agriculture and Natural Resources, Budget and Finance

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/A4105