Santabarbara Introduces Public Service Commission Reform After Budget Hearing Exposes Regulatory Breakdown
Following his exchange with Public Service Commission (PSC) Chair Rory Christian at the Joint Legislative Budget Hearing on Energy and the Environment, Assemblyman Angelo Santabarbara today announced legislation to reform how members of the PSC are appointed – citing concerns raised during the hearing about rising delivery charges, utility profits, and the lack of accountability for ratepayers.
At the hearing, Assemblyman Santabarbara challenged the PSC over its approval of a three-year rate plan that increased delivery charges and built in utility profits – while families across New York report paying more even when using the same or less energy.
Despite growing public concern about affordability, the Commission has continued to approve rate structures that limit transparency and provide little recourse for consumers.
“People are paying more even when they use less – because of delivery charges approved by the Commission,” Assemblyman Angelo Santabarbara said.
Watch the hearing exchange:
Right now, the people who sit on the Public Service Commission – the board that approves utility rates – are chosen through a closed process.
This bill changes that by putting an independent system in place – similar to how New York selects the Board of Regents for education.
It:
- Creates an independent screening committee to vet candidates
- Requires a public slate of nominees
- Has the Legislature elect PSC commissioners in joint session
- Keeps utility insiders off the Commission
- Requires full financial and conflict-of-interest disclosures
“This puts a system in place that’s independent, transparent, and accountable – so the people who decide our energy bills answer to the public,” Assemblyman Santabarbara said.