New York Assembly Bill A02736

New York 2025-2026 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/22/25
• Refer: 1/22/25
• Report Pass: 5/20/25
• Refer: 5/20/25
• Report Pass: 5/27/25
• Engrossed: 5/27/25
• Refer: 5/27/25
• Engrossed: 6/5/25

Caption

Requires that any proposed capital expenditure to be considered in any matter affecting a major change in rates must be described by the utility and shall include the purpose, cost, and benefits to the ratepayers and shall be posted on the PSC website.

Impact

The enactment of A02736 is expected to have significant implications for how utility companies operate in regards to rate changes. By requiring utilities to justify and openly disclose the specifics of proposed capital expenditures, it aims to protect consumers from unjustified rate increases. This greater scrutiny ensures that ratepayer interests are considered more thoroughly in rate proceedings, as utilities will bear the burden of proof to demonstrate that proposed rate changes are fair and reasonable.

Summary

Bill A02736 aims to enhance the transparency and accountability of utility companies in New York by requiring a detailed description of any proposed capital expenditures that could affect major changes in utility rates. The bill mandates that utility companies provide comprehensive information regarding the purpose, total cost, expected lifespan, location, rationale, and anticipated benefits to ratepayers for each capital project proposed. This information is to be made publicly available on the Public Service Commission (PSC) website, thereby increasing public access to pertinent details concerning their utility rates.

Contention

There may be contention surrounding the bill, particularly from utility companies who might view the additional requirements as bureaucratic hurdles that could complicate the capital expenditure approval process. Critics might argue that these regulations could slow down necessary infrastructure projects or lead to increased administrative costs. However, supporters argue that such transparency is vital for ensuring that ratepayers are not burdened with excessive costs without clear justification. The balance between adequate regulation and smooth operational capacity for utilities will likely be a focal point of the debate surrounding this bill.