NYS Senate Passes Addabbo Bill Requiring Utility Companies to Provide 45 Days Notice for Rent Increases

Queens, NY (March 12, 2025): The New York State Senate has passed Senate Bill S.1194-A, legislation that enhances transparency and consumer protection by requiring gas and electric corporations to notify customers at least forty-five days before any increase in service rates or charges.

 

This bill, sponsored by Senator Joseph P. Addabbo, Jr., ensures that utility customers receive ample notice before any adjustments are applied to their bills. This allows them to plan accordingly and voice concerns if necessary. The measure addresses longstanding concerns over unexpected rate hikes that burden households and businesses across New York State.

 

“New Yorkers deserve fair notice when their utility costs are expected to increase,” said Addabbo. “Customers have seen significant rate and monthly increases in their utility bills, many without notice of these changes. As many households struggle to afford necessities, such as a carton of eggs, the burden of increased utility charges without notice for these same individuals is stressful and unacceptable,” added Addabbo.

 

Under current regulations, utilities may notify customers of rate changes without warning, often leading to confusion and financial strain. This bill empowers consumers and enhances the oversight of utility pricing practices by requiring a 45-day notification period.

 

The bill now heads to the NYS Assembly for consideration. If passed and signed into law, it will strengthen consumer rights and hold utility providers accountable for keeping customers informed.