Bill > A04249

This bill prohibits public utilities from using or being reimbursed by ratepayer funds for several types of expenses, including political contributions, gifts to trade associations and charities, lobbying, entertainment, travel for board members, investor relations, and certain public relations campaigns. The bill defines key terms like "public utility," "trade association," and "charity," and requires utilities with over 75,000 customers to submit annual reports to the Public Service Commission detailing any expenses that would be prohibited under the new law. Utilities must also file quarterly reports if they engage in major political activities, and these reports must include specifics like the date, payee, amount, and purpose of each expenditure. The Public Service Commission is directed to make these reports publicly available on its website and to develop rules implementing the bill's provisions. The legislation aims to prevent utilities from using money collected from customers for activities not directly related to providing utility services, thereby protecting ratepayers from indirectly funding political or promotional activities. The bill will take effect 90 days after becoming law.

Government Affairs

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/A4249