New York Assembly Bill A10361

New York 2025-2026 Regular Session

• Introduced: 3/2/26
• Refer: 3/2/26

Caption

Relates to the department of public service; limits increases in the amount of surcharges; establishes a one year moratorium on the collection of energy surcharges; establishes a moratorium on new surcharge assessments, taxes or fees.

Impact

If enacted, A10361 will provide immediate financial relief to consumers by preventing any increases in energy surcharges associated with the system benefit charge, the renewable portfolio standard, and similar funds. Additionally, the bill explicitly prohibits the establishment of new energy taxes and fees, fostering an environment that could ease the financial burden on energy consumers across the state. The long-term implications could reshape how energy services are regulated and billed, giving consumers more predictability regarding their energy costs.

Summary

Bill A10361, titled the 'Energy Assessment Cap and Consumer Cost Relief Act of 2026', introduces significant changes to the public service law, particularly regarding energy-related surcharges. This bill aims to limit increases in surcharges established by the public service commission and places a one-year moratorium on the collection of certain surcharges. The bill is founded on the principle of providing cost relief to consumers in light of rising energy costs and seeks to promote greater transparency and fairness in energy billing practices.

Contention

Despite its consumer-friendly intentions, the bill may face contention from various stakeholders, including those who believe it could hamper necessary funding for renewable energy initiatives and energy efficiency programs. Critics argue that limiting surcharge collections might negatively impact investments in energy infrastructure and affect the state’s ability to transition to more sustainable energy solutions. The balance between providing immediate cost relief to consumers and ensuring sufficient funding for energy innovation and transitions remains a critical point of debate surrounding A10361.