Bill > A06951

This bill addresses utility rate regulation by introducing new limitations on how utilities can request extensions to rate suspension periods and recover revenues during those periods. Specifically, the bill modifies existing public service law to require that any 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 if a further extension is necessary. The bill also establishes detailed restrictions on "make whole" provisions, which allow utilities to retroactively recover revenues they would have earned if new rates had been in effect. Under the new provisions, utilities can only recover a decreasing percentage of potential lost revenues during extended suspension periods: 90% in the first two months, 70% in the third month, 30% in the fourth month, and nothing thereafter. The legislative intent emphasizes addressing the financial strain on consumers caused by escalating utility costs and the current imbalance of power between utilities and ratepayers. The bill aims to protect consumers from unexpected large bills and prevent utilities from using prolonged rate case negotiations to impose significant retroactive rate increases. The changes will take effect one year after becoming law, giving utilities and the public service commission time to adapt to the new regulations.

Agriculture and Natural Resources

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/A6951