Senator Canzoneri-Fitzpatrick Continues the Fight for Affordable Water Access on Long Island

Many Long Island residents are experiencing exorbitant costs on their water utility bills, and I want to provide you with an update on what I am doing to address this critical issue. Earlier this year, I introduced legislation to lower water bills by excluding privately owned water-works corporations—such as Liberty Water—from the Special Franchise Tax (SFT), thereby eliminating this state-mandated tax from your overall water service charge, which can account for more than 30% of customers’ water bills.   

Privately owned water-works corporations pay a "special franchise” tax that is required by the state and passed directly onto residents through their water bill, resulting in higher water bills for consumers. Water is a necessity, and because certain residents cannot choose public water as their provider, it unfairly increases water utility bills for the New Yorkers who must utilize a private water company.

Please be assured that I have heard the concerns of the many residents who have reached out regarding their costly water bills.  

During the 2023-2024 Legislative Session, I introduced Senate Bill S9846, which would redefine “special franchise” to exclude privately owned water-works corporations from this tax. This change is designed to provide immediate relief for our residents. 

Although this measure was not voted on during this year's session, I remain committed to advocating for its passage. It is essential that we continue to push for this legislation to ensure its benefits are realized for our community.