Bill > A06204

This bill directs the New York Department of Public Service to modify how utility corporations calculate residential fixed charges during rate schedule amendments. Specifically, the bill defines "residential fixed charge" as any fixed fee charged to residential utility customers, such as distribution service charges or basic service fees. When utility companies file to change their rates, the department must ensure that these fixed charges only recover costs directly related to metering, billing, service connections, and customer service. The bill also requires utility corporations to provide clear and transparent information about these fixed charges to customers, including detailed explanations of the specific costs included in the calculation. Utilities must make this information easily accessible through their websites and billing statements, and must provide advance notice to customers about any changes to fixed charges, including the reasons for and potential impact of such changes. Importantly, the bill stipulates that these requirements cannot cause a cost shift to other rate classes, ensuring that the adjustments do not unfairly redistribute costs among different types of utility customers.

Agriculture and Natural Resources, Budget and Finance

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/A6204