Bill > A04713

This bill requires various utility service providers, including gas, electric, water, steam, cable television, and internet service companies, to establish and maintain a toll-free phone number for consumers to report service outages. The toll-free number must be available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, and have the capacity to handle increased call volumes during emergencies or extreme weather conditions. These companies must prominently display the toll-free number on their website homepage and on the first page of each customer's billing statement. The bill applies to utility providers across different sectors, including public utilities, public authorities, and private service providers. If a utility company fails to comply with these requirements, they will be subject to penalties outlined in section twenty-five of the public service law. Additionally, municipalities have the option to petition for an exemption if they can demonstrate that these requirements would be unduly burdensome. The act will take effect 90 days after becoming law, giving utility providers time to implement the new communication requirements.

Budget and Finance, Government Affairs, Housing and Urban Affairs

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/A4713