Relates to establishing the office of the utility consumer advocate and the utility policy advisory board

BILL NUMBER:S7396

Title of bill

An act to amend the public service law and the executive law, in relation to establishing the office of utility consumer advocate

Purpose:

To create the office of utility consumer advocate and the utility policy advisory board and delineate the duties and powers of each entity.

Summary of Provisions:

Section 1. Amends the Public Service Law to define "office of the utili- ty consumer advocate"

Section 2. Provides the option to the commission to supply certain docu- ments to the office of the utility consumer advocate

Section 3. Renames the utility intervention unit as the office of utili- ty consumer advocate, creates the utility policy advisory board, and delineates the appointment process, terms of office as well as the powers and responsibilities of the advocate and the policy boards as well as reporting requirements.

Section 4. Sets forth the effective date.

Justification:

Consumers of all classes, including residential, small business and commercial customers as well as working men and women need a voice before the public service commission. It is important that all opinions and points of view be considered and that the interests of all New York- ers are equally served in rate cases and other proceedings. This bill creates the office of utility consumer advocate and the utility policy advisory board to bring a balanced perspective to the deliberations of the public service commission and ensure that everyone's voice is heard.

Fiscal Implications:

Minimal-travel expenses of the utility policy advisory board would be reimbursed.

History:

This is a new bill

Effective Date:

This bill shall take effect immediately.