A long-proposed consumer advocacy group for utility disputes is nearing approval in New York, according to CNY Central.
Lawmakers say the state-funded office would give ratepayers a stronger voice in pushing back on rising utility costs. Assemblyman Jeffrey Dinowitz, who sponsors the bill, criticized the current Utilities Intervention Unit as ineffective and understaffed. He believes the new office would save New Yorkers millions.
More than 40 states already have similar agencies. In June, over 225,000 National Grid customers owed a combined $362 million, with more than 11,000 homes disconnected.
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