Citing a flood of complaints from residents burdened by surging utility bills, Congressman Josh Riley announced Wednesday the launch of a formal investigation into rate hikes by Upstate New York utility companies. The inquiry will focus on corporate pricing practices, profit margins, and the impact of rising costs on working families in New York’s 19th Congressional District.
“Today, too many families across Upstate New York have too many envelopes and not enough money to fill them,” Riley said, referencing the weekly budgeting routine he remembered from his childhood. “Meanwhile, utility companies are jacking up rates and bragging to investors about record profits.”
As part of the effort, Riley submitted a request to New York State Electric and Gas (NYSEG) seeking a full breakdown of billing data, justification for recent rate increases, and clarification on whether customer payments are being used to boost overseas profits. He also formally intervened in Central Hudson’s pending case with the New York State Public Service Commission, which is reviewing the company’s request for yet another rate hike.
Riley is urging NY-19 residents to share their personal experiences, utility bills, and concerns via a district-wide survey. The results will inform the direction of the investigation and support potential legislative or regulatory action.
“You sent me to Congress to take on the special interests and make it a little bit easier for you and your family to make ends meet,” Riley said. “That’s what this investigation is about.”
Since taking office in January, Riley has prioritized reducing costs for working families. His legislative portfolio includes bipartisan measures like the Lowering Egg Prices Act, the Weatherization Enhancement & Readiness Act, and efforts to compel the federal government to fulfill financial obligations to Upstate farms. He has also advocated for bolstering domestic manufacturing in New York.
FingerLakes1.com is the region’s leading all-digital news publication. The company was founded in 1998 and has been keeping residents informed for more than two decades. Have a lead? Send it to [email protected].