Bill > S07567

This bill requires utility providers and the Long Island Power Authority to provide automatic financial reimbursements to residential consumers and small businesses when essential services are disrupted for 48 hours or more due to equipment failures, weather events, natural disasters, or other service interruptions. Under the bill, a "small business" is defined as a state-based, independently owned and operated business with 50 or fewer employees that is not dominant in its field. The utilities and authority must develop specific reimbursement rules within 180 days of the bill's effective date, and the discounts will be applied directly to the monthly service charges. Importantly, the bill specifies that any costs associated with these reimbursements cannot be passed on to ratepayers, meaning the utility companies must absorb the expense. The bill covers various types of utility services including gas, electric, water, and steam utilities, and it applies both to traditional utility corporations and municipalities providing equivalent services. The legislation aims to provide consumer protection by ensuring that customers are financially compensated when they experience extended service disruptions.

Transportation and Infrastructure

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/S7567