(Long Island, NY) Assemblyman Michael A. Montesano (R,I,C-Glen Head) is co-sponsoring legislation to create a state utility consumer advocate. Assembly bill 6239A would create the state Office of the Utility Consumer Advocate to represent New Yorkers in regulatory proceedings. Currently, residents have nowhere to voice their concerns in the determination of rates and services, an issue that has become even more glaring in the wake of Superstorm Sandy and the failures of LIPA to provide affordable, efficient energy and service. Montesano sees the creation of this post as essential to making utilities more affordable and reliable for our families.
“When utility rates and services are determined, residents don’t have a voice representing their needs,” said Montesano. “Because of this, providers have escalated rates and diminished their quality of service at the expense of New York’s hardworking families. This needs to change.
“A Utility Consumer Advocate is crucial in helping our already overburdened residents. In the aftermath of Superstorm Sandy and LIPA’s failures to respond to our needs, this position has become even more important to provide Long Islanders with the low-cost, high-quality energy they deserve. I urge my colleagues in the Assembly and Senate to take up this meaningful reform, and help ensure New Yorkers receive the best service possible, while lowering their energy bills in the process.”
