More utility customers could see relief under New York’s new state budget, according to Spectrum News 1. The spending plan includes rebate checks of $150 to $200 for eligible households and new oversight measures aimed at utility rate increases.
The budget requires utilities seeking rate hikes to provide lower-cost alternatives and allows regulators to appoint an affordability monitor when approved increases exceed 3%. Consumer advocates say the changes could help limit future costs for ratepayers.
The developments come as state regulators investigate utility collection practices after company representatives were recorded making remarks about customers struggling to pay their bills. Consumer advocates say more than 1 million utility accounts across New York remain behind on payments, totaling roughly $1.9 billion in arrears.
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