New York Assembly Bill A06371

New York 2025-2026 Regular Session

• Introduced: 3/4/25
• Refer: 3/4/25
• Refer: 1/7/26

Caption

Prohibits the NYC water board from enacting any rules and regulations less favorable to the consumer, including timeframes for appeals and receiving refunds.

Summary

Bill A06371 seeks to protect consumers by prohibiting the New York City Water Board from enacting rules and regulations that are less favorable to consumers, particularly concerning the appeal process for water bills and the issuance of refunds. Specifically, the bill mandates that consumers must have adequate time to appeal their bills and receive refunds, ensuring that any backbilling errors that favor consumers result in refunds being issued for up to six years. This legislation aims to enhance consumer rights and provide greater financial protection for residents dealing with billing disputes.

Impact

If enacted, this bill will amend existing regulations governing the New York City Water Board, ensuring that consumer protections are prioritized. It will limit the board's ability to implement any rules that could disadvantage consumers, thereby reinforcing the rights of individuals in disputes over water billing. This could lead to increased accountability for the Water Board and potentially more favorable outcomes for consumers in billing disputes.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding Bill A06371 appears to be positive among consumer advocacy groups, as it aims to enhance consumer protections. However, there may be concerns from the Water Board regarding the implications of the bill on their operational flexibility and financial management. The lack of recorded votes or committee discussions suggests that the bill may not yet have undergone extensive debate or scrutiny.

Contention

Notable points of contention may arise from the Water Board's perspective, as they could argue that the restrictions imposed by the bill may hinder their ability to manage billing processes effectively. On the other hand, consumer advocates strongly support the bill, emphasizing the need for protections against potential billing errors and ensuring fair treatment for consumers. The balance between operational efficiency for the Water Board and consumer rights is likely to be a key area of debate.