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[1] See, Collections Activity Reports in 91-M-0744, at https://documents.dps.ny.gov/public/MatterManagement/CaseMaster.aspx?MatterCaseNo=91-M-0744.
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AARP NY & PULP: 1.2M NYS Households 60 Days Behind on Utility Bills Need Relief in State Budget
ALBANY, N.Y. – AARP New York State Director Beth Finkel and Public Utility Law Project Executive Director and Counsel Laurie Wheelock released this statement today on the need to include energy affordability measures in the final state budget:
The Senate and Assembly demonstrated strong leadership in their one-house proposals by prioritizing substantial investments to make energy more affordable for those in need.
These investments would provide much-needed support for New York’s low-income utility ratepayers, expand eligibility to moderate-income households, offer cooling assistance for the hot summer months, and fund an energy affordability study to guide the implementation our climate laws. Additionally, they would create resources for individuals and community groups who want to participate in Public Service Commission rate cases on behalf of consumers.
As budget negotiations progress, AARP and PULP call on the Governor to stand with the Legislature in ensuring that New Yorkers can cool their homes in the summer and heat them next winter.
The need for action has never been greater. As of February 2025, 1.2 million households were more than 60 days behind on their utility bills, owing close to $1.8 billion. Over 400,000 termination notices were sent for lack of payment, and 9,025 households had their service terminated for non-payment.[1] (See chart below)
New York cannot be called an affordable place to live when more than a million households are making the difficult choice to keep the lights on and stay warm or pay rent and put food on the table.
The Governor and Legislature must ensure a final state budget includes the resources to help New Yorkers afford their ever-rising energy costs. Financial support is needed now more than ever.
Connect with PULP on Facebook: Public Utility Law Project of New York
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