Relates to establishing discount programs for veterans; provides that utilities, waterworks corporations, telephone corporations and cable television companies shall create discount programs that provide a 10 percent discount to veterans; defines terms.
Summary
Bill S01334 aims to amend the public service law in New York to establish discount programs for veterans across various utility services. Specifically, it mandates gas corporations, electric corporations, municipalities, waterworks corporations, telephone corporations, and cable television companies to offer a 10% discount on utility bills to eligible veterans. The bill outlines the eligibility criteria for veterans, which includes being a primary account holder, having a household income of less than $50,000 for the past two years, and providing proof of honorable discharge from military service. The bill also requires these entities to advertise the discount programs prominently on their websites.
Impact
The bill will create a new section in the public service law that directly impacts utility pricing structures by introducing mandatory discounts for veterans. It will not impose additional costs on existing customers, as the fiscal impact of the discount programs will not be passed on to them. This legislation is expected to enhance financial support for veterans, making essential services more affordable for this demographic, while also setting a precedent for similar discount programs in the future.
Sentiment
The sentiment surrounding Bill S01334 appears to be positive, with discussions likely highlighting the importance of supporting veterans through financial relief in utility costs. However, without specific voting history or committee transcripts, the overall consensus cannot be fully assessed. The bill's intent to provide tangible benefits to veterans is generally well-received, reflecting a commitment to honoring their service.
Contention
While the bill has strong support for its intention to assist veterans, there may be contention regarding the implementation and funding of these discount programs. Some stakeholders might express concerns about the administrative burden on utility companies to verify eligibility and the potential impact on their financial operations. Additionally, discussions may arise regarding whether the income threshold is appropriate or if it should be adjusted to include more veterans in need.
Same As
Relates to establishing discount programs for veterans; provides that utilities, waterworks corporations, telephone corporations and cable television companies shall create discount programs that provide a 10 percent discount to veterans; defines terms.
Relates to establishing discount programs for veterans; provides that utilities, waterworks corporations, telephone corporations and cable television companies shall create discount programs that provide a 10 percent discount to veterans; defines terms.
Relates to establishing discount programs for veterans; provides that utilities, waterworks corporations, telephone corporations and cable television companies shall create discount programs that provide a 10 percent discount to veterans; defines terms.
Relates to establishing discount programs for low-income senior citizens and individuals with a disability; provides that utilities, waterworks corporations, telephone corporations and cable television companies shall create discount programs that provide a 10 percent discount to low-income senior citizens and individuals with a disability; defines terms.
Relates to establishing discount programs for low-income senior citizens and individuals with a disability; provides that utilities, waterworks corporations, telephone corporations and cable television companies shall create discount programs that provide a 10 percent discount to low-income senior citizens and individuals with a disability; defines terms.
Relates to establishing discount programs for low-income senior citizens and individuals with a disability; provides that utilities, waterworks corporations, telephone corporations and cable television companies shall create discount programs that provide a 10 percent discount to low-income senior citizens and individuals with a disability; defines terms.
Requiring economic development electric rate discounts offered by public utilities to cover the incremental and variable costs to serve customers that receive such a discount.
Prohibiting large facilities receiving certain tariffs or failing to meet workforce and electric demand requirements from qualifying for economic development electric rates.