News From Assemblyman Goldfeder

Goldfeder Fights to Protect Utility Customers

  

Passes Legislation to create the New York State Office of Utility Consumer Advocate (UCA)

Assemblyman Phil Goldfeder (D-Howard Beach) announced the passage of legislation that would create the New York State Office of Utility Consumer Advocate (UCA) to serve as an independent advocate and appear on behalf of New Yorkers in state and federal regulatory proceedings (A. 6239B). Currently, New York is one of the few states- and by far the largest - without an independent state agency that represents the interests of residential utility customers.

“Families in New York are currently without a voice when it comes to their utility services,” said Assemblyman Phil Goldfeder. “Following the mass utility failures during Sandy, the glaring need for an advocate representing our families is clear. Utility providers have the resources and a powerful presence in proceedings and residents should too.”

Presently, New Yorkers are represented by the Public Service Commission and the Utility Intervention Unit, but neither entity is able to act solely in the interest of consumers. The UCA would be appointed by the governor and confirmed by the Senate and would serve a six year term. These terms would allow for real representation on behalf of residential consumers, Goldfeder noted.

“It seems like every week we hear about another power company raising rates or claiming that outside influences are making ratepayers’ utility bills go up,” concluded Goldfeder. “UCA would provide New Yorkers a voice, potentially saving them considerable amounts of money when it comes to their utility bills. This legislation is long overdue and would bring New York up to speed with the countless other states already providing appropriate representation to utility consumers.”

 

More than 40 states, including the District of Columbia have a UCA.

This legislation will still need to pass the Senate and be approved and signed by the governor to become law.