NEW YORK STATE — The New York State Assembly passed a bill (A1441A) that was co-sponsored by Assemblymember Paula Elaine Kay (D–100), aimed at requiring utility companies to provide written determination of billing disputes. It establishes a penalty structure for utility companies that fail to comply.

“If the past few months have taught us anything, it’s that greater billing transparency is long overdue. While the entire state has faced rising costs, many of my constituents have dealt with utility bills that now rival mortgage and rent payments and billing errors that weren’t addressed until my office stepped in. Residents of Sullivan and Orange counties are already struggling to keep the lights on—it’s time we ensure a clear, fair process for anyone facing potential billing issues. There’s simply no room for mistakes,” Kay said.

Kay added that the legislation also ensures that small businesses and nonprofits are treated equitably by applying the same complaint standards across all customer types—not just residential.

“The utility needs of our small businesses and nonprofits, which often operate on tight margins, must be taken seriously. I hope this is just the beginning of efforts to bring fairness and accountability to all constituents.”

This bill has been referred to the Senate Standing Committee on Energy and Telecommunications.