Directs the department of state and the public service commission to study and report upon the prevalence of the disclosure by public utilities, cable television companies and cellular telephone service providers to credit reporting agencies of late payments and defaults in payment of fees and charges by consumers.
Summary
Bill A05592 directs the Department of State and the Public Service Commission of New York to conduct a study on the practices of public utility companies, cable television providers, and cellular telephone service suppliers regarding the reporting of late payments and defaults to consumer credit reporting agencies. The bill mandates that these agencies examine the implications of such reporting on consumers and provide recommendations for regulatory and statutory changes that may be necessary to protect consumers in this context. The findings and recommendations are to be reported to the governor and legislature by December 31, 2026.
Impact
If enacted, this bill could lead to significant changes in how public utilities and service providers report consumer payment information to credit reporting agencies. It may result in new regulations aimed at safeguarding consumer rights and ensuring that reporting practices are fair and transparent. The study's outcomes could influence future legislation regarding consumer credit reporting and the responsibilities of utility companies in this area.
Sentiment
The sentiment surrounding Bill A05592 appears to be generally favorable, as indicated by the supportive votes in the Assembly Rules Committee and the Assembly Ways and Means Committee. The discussions suggest a recognition of the need to protect consumers from potential negative impacts of late payment reporting, although specific concerns or opposition have not been detailed in the available transcripts.
Contention
While the bill has received favorable votes, there may be contention regarding the balance between the interests of utility companies and consumer protection. Some stakeholders may argue that increased regulation could impose burdens on service providers, while consumer advocacy groups may push for stronger protections against negative credit reporting practices. Specific points of contention have not been highlighted in the current discussions.
Same As
Directs the department of state and the public service commission to study and report upon the prevalence of the disclosure by public utilities, cable television companies and cellular telephone service providers to credit reporting agencies of late payments and defaults in payment of fees and charges by consumers.
Directs the department of state and the public service commission to study and report upon the prevalence of the disclosure by public utilities, cable television companies and cellular telephone service providers to credit reporting agencies of late payments and defaults in payment of fees and charges by consumers.
Directs the department of state and the public service commission to study and report upon the prevalence of the disclosure by public utilities, cable television companies and cellular telephone service providers to credit reporting agencies of late payments and defaults in payment of fees and charges by consumers.
Requires cable television, direct broadcast satellite, and television streaming service companies to include certain fees and charges for service in advertised price to consumers.
Enacts the "cellular mapping act"; requires the public service commission to review cellular services within the state; requires the expansion of cellular services.
Enacts the "cellular mapping act"; requires the public service commission to review cellular services within the state; requires the expansion of cellular services.
Instructs the department of financial services to regulate consumer reporting agencies by requiring licensing of credit reporting agencies, and allowing the department to examine the books and records of consumer reporting agencies.
Instructs the department of financial services to regulate consumer reporting agencies by requiring licensing of credit reporting agencies, and allowing the department to examine the books and records of consumer reporting agencies.
Public Utilities and Public Transportation; a consumer utility counsel to represent consumers in matters before the Public Service Commission or other agencies concerning public utilities; reestablish