Republican lawmakers intensified criticism of Gov. Kathy Hochul and Democratic leaders Wednesday, arguing New Yorkers continue facing soaring utility bills while Albany remains deadlocked over a state budget now more than a month overdue.
Assembly Republican Leader Ed Ra, Senate Republican Leader Rob Ortt and Nassau County Executive Bruce Blakeman called for immediate action on energy cost relief measures, accusing Democrats of delaying proposals Republicans say could reduce monthly utility costs for residents statewide.
The lawmakers pointed to rising electricity prices in New York, citing reports that power costs are now significantly higher than the national average. They also referenced projections tied to the state’s long-term climate mandates that estimate utility costs for some upstate households could eventually exceed $4,000 annually.
“Reducing energy prices should have been a Day 1 priority,” Ra said in a statement, arguing billions of dollars remain available for potential ratepayer relief.
Republicans again promoted their previously announced LOWER Plan, an energy proposal unveiled earlier this year that includes rebate checks for moderate- and middle-income households, utility bill credits tied to unused climate program funds and expanded investment in natural gas infrastructure.
The plan also calls for revisiting several state climate and energy mandates, including requirements related to zero-emission school buses, building electrification and restrictions involving fossil fuel appliances.
Ortt blamed what he described as “out-of-touch policies” for driving residents out of New York and said lawmakers should prioritize affordability and spending reductions during budget negotiations.
Blakeman, who has been floated as a potential gubernatorial candidate, sharply criticized Hochul’s energy policies and pledged to eliminate climate-related mandates if elected governor.
Democrats and state officials have defended New York’s climate transition policies in recent years as necessary long-term investments aimed at reducing emissions, modernizing infrastructure and improving environmental sustainability.
The state budget remains unresolved more than five weeks after its April 1 deadline.
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