Requires utility companies to reimburse consumers for spoilage of food and medication due to the lack of refrigeration in the event of a power outage lasting seventy-two hours or more.
Summary
Bill A04232 amends the public service law to require utility companies in New York to reimburse residential and small business customers for losses incurred due to prolonged power outages lasting seventy-two hours or more. The bill specifies reimbursement for spoiled food and prescription medications, with set limits on the amounts that can be claimed by customers. Residential customers can claim up to $235 for food and the actual loss for medications, while small businesses can claim up to $10,700 for food spoilage.
Impact
If enacted, this bill would create a new obligation for utility companies to reimburse customers for specific losses due to extended power outages, thereby enhancing consumer protection. It would necessitate changes in utility company policies and procedures to accommodate claims processing and reimbursement, potentially leading to increased operational costs for these companies. The bill also empowers the state department to establish rules and regulations to define key terms and implement the provisions effectively.
Sentiment
The sentiment around Bill A04232 appears to be generally supportive among consumer advocacy groups, who view it as a necessary protection for residents and small businesses against the financial impacts of power outages. However, utility companies may express concerns regarding the financial implications and administrative burden of processing reimbursements, which could lead to debates during discussions in committee.
Contention
Notable points of contention include the potential financial burden on utility companies and the administrative challenges associated with implementing the reimbursement process. Utility representatives may argue that the reimbursement limits are insufficient to cover the actual losses experienced by customers, while consumer advocates may push for more comprehensive protections and higher reimbursement caps.
Same As
Requires utility companies to reimburse consumers for spoilage of food and medication due to the lack of refrigeration in the event of a power outage lasting seventy-two hours or more.
Requires utility companies to reimburse consumers for spoilage of food and medication due to the lack of refrigeration in the event of a power outage lasting seventy-two hours or more.
Requires utility companies to reimburse consumers for spoilage of food and medication due to the lack of refrigeration in the event of a power outage lasting seventy-two hours or more.
Requires electric public utility to reimburse customers for up to $500 for spoiled food and full cost of spoiled medicine resulting from lengthy service outage following major event.
Requires electric public utility to reimburse customer for cost of spoiled food and prescription medicine resulting from service outage more than 48 hours after end of storm.
Requires electric public utility to reimburse customers for up to $500 for spoiled food and full cost of spoiled medicine resulting from lengthy service outage following major event.
Requires electric public utility to reimburse customers for cost of certain spoiled products resulting from service outage more than 72 hours after end of storm.
Requires electric public utility to reimburse residential or commercial customer for cost of certain spoiled items resulting from service outage more than 48 hours after end of storm.
Requires electric public utility to reimburse residential customer for cost of food and prescription medicine spoiled or compromised as a result of sustained electric service outage.
Requires electric public utility to reimburse residential customer for cost of food and prescription medicine spoiled or compromised as a result of sustained electric service outage.