Bill > S05593

This bill addresses utility rate regulation by introducing new limitations on how utilities can request extensions to rate suspension periods and how they can retroactively recover revenues during those periods. The legislation responds to concerns about escalating utility costs, with approximately 1.5 million residential households at risk of service shutoffs and utilities consistently achieving significant profits. Specifically, the bill modifies existing public service law to require that subsequent requests for suspension period extensions must be approved by the public service commission and will only be valid for one month, after which the commission must review and determine the necessity of further extension. Additionally, the bill introduces detailed restrictions on "make whole" provisions, which previously allowed utilities to retroactively recover revenues. Under the new rules, utilities can recover progressively smaller percentages of potential additional revenues during extended suspension periods: 90% in the first two months, 70% in the third month, 30% in the fourth month, and nothing beyond five months. The bill aims to protect consumers from unexpected, large utility bills and reduce the power imbalance between utility companies and ratepayers by limiting retroactive rate increases and providing more oversight of the rate-setting process.

Agriculture and Natural Resources, Transportation and Infrastructure

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/S5593