Bill > A05601

This bill requires gas, electric, water, telephone, and cable companies in New York to create discount programs that provide a 10% reduction on utility bills for low-income senior citizens and individuals with disabilities, with specific eligibility criteria. To qualify as an "individual with a disability," a person must: have a disability as defined by state law, have a household income under $50,000 for the past two tax years, and be currently receiving certain disability benefits like Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) or Veterans Affairs disability compensation. For "low-income senior citizens," individuals must be at least 65 years old and either have a household income under $50,000 or be eligible for emergency rental or home energy assistance programs. Companies must prominently advertise these discounts on their websites, and the fiscal impact of the programs cannot be passed on to other customers. The bill also allows telephone and cable companies to satisfy the discount requirement by participating in federal connectivity assistance programs, and companies may request proof of eligibility from account holders before applying the discount.

Agriculture and Natural Resources

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/A5601