Bill > A07954

This bill directs the Public Service Commission (PSC) to require electric and steam corporations to provide rate reductions or refunds when they fail to meet service quality standards, with a focus on large cities with populations of one million or more. Specifically, if electric or steam service is interrupted for extended periods (12 hours for electricity, 48 hours for steam), the corporations must reimburse customers for property damages and lost business. The minimum reimbursement amounts are set at $500 for food and medication losses, $1,000 for electrical equipment damages, and $10,000 for lost business, with additional compensation for each subsequent service interruption period. The bill mandates that these refunds or reductions must be at least 5% of the customer's bill for a 12-month period, though the PSC can set maximum reimbursement limits. The PSC is also required to review its existing policies by April 1, 2026, and report to various state legislative leaders about potential additional actions to protect customers from service interruptions. The bill will take effect 180 days after becoming law, with the PSC immediately authorized to prepare for implementation.

Agriculture and Natural Resources

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/A7954