Increases the number of days between the sending of a notice of termination by a utility corporation and the actual date of termination of service; increases the age of residents in the home to 21 from 18 for purposes of special procedures for terminations; decreases the amount required for a downpayment on an arrears on utility bills; lowers the age of customers to whom a utility company must offer quarterly billing from 62 to 55.
Impact
The legislation introduces several key amendments, including raising the minimum age from 18 to 21 for residents in households that can access special procedures regarding service terminations. Additionally, the bill decreases the amount required for a down payment on utility bill arrears, reducing it from half to one-third, making it easier for customers facing financial difficulties to manage their overdue bills. Furthermore, it lowers the age threshold for customers eligible for quarterly billing from 62 to 55, thereby extending this payment option to a broader demographic. Overall, these changes are intended to enhance consumer protections and improve access to utility services.
Summary
S09118 is legislation aimed at modifying certain provisions of New York's public service law, specifically in relation to the termination of utility services and the establishment of consumer protection measures. A notable change proposed by the bill includes extending the notification period for termination from 15 days to 30 days, which is designed to provide customers with more lead time to address their outstanding bills. This is particularly beneficial for vulnerable populations, such as the elderly and disabled, as it affords them additional time to secure their financial circumstances before service disruption occurs.
Contention
While proponents of the bill argue that these adjustments are necessary to protect vulnerable customers, critics may express concerns over the financial implications for utility companies, suggesting that the increased burden on the industry could lead to higher operational costs. There may also be discussions around the effectiveness of a one-size-fits-all approach to consumer protection, as some stakeholders believe that individual circumstances should be considered more carefully. Consequently, the bill underscores an ongoing debate between safeguarding consumer rights and maintaining the viability of utility providers.
Same As
Increases the number of days between the sending of a notice of termination by a utility corporation and the actual date of termination of service; increases the age of residents in the home to 21 from 18 for purposes of special procedures for terminations; decreases the amount required for a downpayment on an arrears on utility bills; lowers the age of customers to whom a utility company must offer quarterly billing from 62 to 55.
Increases the number of days between the sending of a notice of termination by a utility corporation and the actual date of termination of service; increases the age of residents in the home to 21 from 18 for purposes of special procedures for terminations; decreases the amount required for a downpayment on an arrears on utility bills; lowers the age of customers to whom a utility company must offer quarterly billing from 62 to 55.
Extends the forbearance of utility terminations for customers with serious illness certifications and would amend various provisions related to the termination of utility services for persons who are disabled, seriously ill, or in arrears.
Extends the forbearance of utility terminations for customers with serious illness certifications and would amend various provisions related to the termination of utility services for persons who are disabled, seriously ill, or in arrears.
Extends the forbearance of utility terminations for customers with serious illness certifications and would amend various provisions related to the termination of utility services for persons who are disabled, seriously ill, or in arrears.
Extends the forbearance of utility terminations for customers with serious illness certifications and would amend various provisions related to the termination of utility services for persons who are disabled, seriously ill, or in arrears.
Prohibits utility service terminations in multiple dwellings; authorizes utility companies or municipalities to commence an action against the owner of the premises affected to seek the appointment of a receiver of rents or payments for use and occupancy or common charges.
Prohibits utility service terminations in multiple dwellings; authorizes utility companies or municipalities to commence an action against the owner of the premises affected to seek the appointment of a receiver of rents or payments for use and occupancy or common charges.
Requires detailed billing for utilities and requiring utility providers to attend local municipal meetings to present proposed rate or charge increases.
Prohibits utility corporations and municipalities from increasing a bill previously rendered to a small non-residential customer after twelve months from the date service was provided; provides limited exceptions to such prohibition; requires the utility corporation or municipality to provide notice regarding the late billing.
Prohibits utility corporations and municipalities from increasing a bill previously rendered to a small non-residential customer after twelve months from the date service was provided; provides limited exceptions to such prohibition; requires the utility corporation or municipality to provide notice regarding the late billing.