Hinchey Statement on Central Hudson Response to PSC Order to Show Cause

Michelle Hinchey

January 19, 2023

ALBANY, NY (January 19, 2023) – State Senator Michelle Hinchey today issued the following statement in response to Central Hudson Gas & Electric Corporation’s 92-page reply to the Public Service Commission's Order to Show Cause, defending their actions regarding the flawed implementation of its estimated billing system.

Senator Michelle Hinchey said, “Central Hudson’s response is glaringly insufficient for the extensive wrongdoing and economic hardships they’ve caused customers across the Hudson Valley. I stand firmly behind the PSC’s investigation, the findings of their damning report, and urge the Commission to move quickly toward a penalty process that delivers justice in support of ratepayers and a path forward that ensures the full correction of all past billing errors.

“While Central Hudson has indicated a willingness to conduct monthly meter readings, it’s clear that this transition must be codified in state law, and I’m proud to have re-introduced my bill to ban estimated billing and require accurate monthly meter readings as the standard in New York. I’ll be working to pass my bill early on in the 2023 legislative session, and will continue to advocate for cost-effective utility solutions on behalf of Hudson Valley ratepayers.”

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