A new survey finds New York seniors need relief from high utility costs.
AARP New York’s survey shows that seniors in the state leave their homes at uncomfortable temperatures or cut other everyday essentials to afford their utility bills. According to the Energy Information Administration, state electricity costs have grown sharply, even though consumption has declined.
Bill Ferris, a legislative representative with AARP New York, said Gov. Kathy Hochul and state lawmakers must act now.
“They have an opportunity to provide immediate relief for people dealing with their high utility bills, and more of a long-term reform change at the Public Service Commission,” he said, “because we believe the Public Service Commission process to develop energy rates is clearly broken and needs to be fixed.”
Budget proposals from both chambers of the New York Legislature call for establishing an independent utility advocate to represent residents in energy rate cases, and boosting utility termination protections for tenants. There is also consideration for New Yorkers to receive an up to $500 utility bill rebate.
However, reforming the Public Service Commission to act on behalf of state residents could prove challenging. Legislation to increase consumer representation with the commission has failed because of lobbying by large energy companies and state utilities.
Ferris said he believes the cost of inaction will be greater than the cost of fighting against energy companies.
“The number of terminations will go up,” he said. “The number of people behind on their bills will go up. More people will take drastic action to afford their utility bill. As we found out, they’re actually cutting back on medical expenses.”
With spring around the corner, he added that utility terminations are set to begin again. Data show more than a million people statewide owe money for electric and gas bills they can’t afford.
