In light of Long Island Power Authority’s (LIPA) recent decision to increase rates by 3 percent, Senator Kenneth P. LaValle (R-Port Jefferson) is urging Governor David Paterson to sign legislation that he and Assemblyman Robert Sweeney (D-Lindenhurst) sponsored to prevent LIPA from imposing rate increases without a review by the New York State Public Service Commission (PSC).
The legislation, which has passed both houses and awaits the Governor’s signature, would trigger the need for an approval by the PSC when LIPA seeks to increase rates by more than two and a half percent a year. If enacted, the PSC would have to review and approve LIPA's rate increase requests before they are passed on to the consumer.
"Without this protection, the people of Long Island are left powerless," said Senator LaValle. "LIPA’s recent rate increase is a perfect example of why this legislation must be signed into law."
Businesses and home owners are paying surcharges equal to that of their energy usage. The costs included within LIPA’s fuel surcharge should have been subject to a public review to prove whether the charges were justified.
"Long Island ratepayers will benefit from the comprehensive review of LIPA’s practices by the professional staff of the PSC. We have all suffered due to the lack of strong oversight of the practices and ratemaking of LIPA," said Assemblyman Sweeney.
"This measure will protect businesses and homeowners from unfair rate hikes and ensure greater oversight of LIPA's rate increase practices," concluded Senator LaValle and Assemblyman Sweeney.
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