New York 2025-2026 Regular Session

New York Senate Bill S02173

Introduced
1/15/25  
Refer
1/15/25  

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 S02173 aims to protect consumers by prohibiting the New York City Water Board from enacting any rules or regulations that are less favorable to consumers. Specifically, the bill mandates that the Water Board cannot reduce the timeframe for consumers to appeal their bills or receive refunds. Additionally, it requires the Water Board to issue refunds for backbilling errors that favor consumers, with a refund period extending up to six years.

Impact

If enacted, this bill would strengthen consumer protections regarding water billing practices in New York City. It would ensure that consumers have adequate time to appeal charges and receive refunds, thereby enhancing transparency and accountability in the Water Board's billing processes. This legislation may also necessitate changes in the Water Board's operational procedures and policies to comply with the new requirements.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding Bill S02173 appears to be positive, as it is framed as a consumer protection measure. However, there may be concerns from the Water Board regarding the implications of the bill on their regulatory authority and operational flexibility.

Contention

Notable points of contention may arise from the Water Board, which could argue that the bill limits their ability to manage billing processes effectively. Additionally, there may be differing opinions among legislators regarding the balance between consumer protection and the operational autonomy of the Water Board.

Companion Bills

NY A06371

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

Previously Filed As

NY A06371

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

NY LD580

An Act to Protect Maine Consumers by Prohibiting Fees Charged for Receiving Paper Statements from Financial Institutions and Credit Card Issuers

NY S08486

Enacts the drinking water protection act, relating to the adoption and enforcement of watershed rules and regulations for the purpose of protecting water quality.

NY A09069

Enacts the drinking water protection act, relating to the adoption and enforcement of watershed rules and regulations for the purpose of protecting water quality.

NY S08136

Relates to enacting the New York state kratom consumer protection act; relates to labeling and other requirements for the sale of kratom products.

NY S09208

Requires employers and third-party websites, job boards, and recruitment platforms to remove inactive job postings within a certain timeframe; authorizes the commissioner of labor to promulgate rules and regulations regarding such posting requirements and violations thereof.

NY HB2244

Modifying the composition of the board of pharmacy and prohibiting the board of pharmacy from adopting rules and regulations that would limit or condition the use of telepharmacy.

NY SF1280

Local government prohibition from enacting policies refusing to enforce traffic regulations

NY S09622

Enacts the "private well testing act"; authorizes the department of health to promulgate rules and regulations to establish standards for the testing of drinking water from privately owned wells.

NY HB473

Boards of water and sewer commissions; prohibited from restricting public recreational uses of controlled water bodies

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.