Bill > A05969

This bill modifies the public service law to establish stricter guidelines for utility corporations and municipalities when issuing estimated utility bills. The bill requires that estimated bills can only be rendered under specific circumstances, such as when a utility has made reasonable efforts to obtain an actual meter reading but cannot, when extraordinary circumstances make meter reading difficult, or when the commission authorizes an estimated reading. The bill prohibits issuing estimated bills for consecutive billing periods, except in cases where customer access is blocked or a state of emergency prevents meter reading. Utilities cannot charge customers for supply or delivery costs associated with non-compliant estimated bills. Additionally, the bill mandates that within six months, each utility corporation and municipality must submit a revised model for estimated billing to the commission that incorporates best practices, technology, and addresses barriers to obtaining actual meter readings. The commission is required to promulgate rules and regulations for these procedures by November 1, 2026. The bill also requires utilities to take reasonable actions to obtain actual meter readings, such as scheduling alternative reading times, allowing customers to submit readings electronically or by photograph, and providing meter reading cards. The act will take effect 180 days after becoming law.

Budget and Finance, Government Affairs

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/A5969