Energy rebate checks worth up to $200 will begin reaching millions of New York households next week as the payments become a campaign issue, according to Spectrum News.
Republican candidate Bruce Blakeman called the checks inadequate and accused Gov. Kathy Hochul of trying to buy votes, while Hochul said the $1 billion program will provide immediate relief.
Democrats said the checks are part of a broader budget package, and Hochul attributed the fall mailing schedule to the late state budget.
AARP supports the payments alongside changes to the Public Service Commission’s rate-setting process.
The Citizens Budget Commission said the state should target assistance to households in the greatest need and focus on longer-term affordability policies.
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