Congressman Josh Riley is urging New York’s major utility providers to pause shutoffs, fees, and collections during the ongoing federal government shutdown.
On October 21, Riley sent letters to NYSEG, Central Hudson, and National Grid demanding written guarantees that families affected by the shutdown won’t lose essential services.
“These companies can afford to show compassion,” Riley said. “Upstate families shouldn’t have to worry about losing heat or power while federal paychecks are frozen.”
He’s asking utilities to commit to three actions:
- No shutoffs for customers facing financial hardship due to the shutdown.
- No late fees or interest while pay is delayed.
- No sending accounts to collections or credit reporting during this period.
Riley cited data showing at least 4,000 federal civilian workers live in his district, not counting contractors or impacted small businesses.
The Congressman asked for public responses by 5 p.m. on Monday, October 27.
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