NY S08984

Authorizes the Public Service Commission to set minimum standards for utility company payment plans for eligible customers, including reasonableness determinations based on household income, ability to pay, payment history, and special hardships.

Requires utility companies to offer residential customers a payment plan that averages estimated utility costs over a 10 or 12-month period to reduce seasonal billing fluctuations.

Mandates a minimum 21-day payment period from bill issuance unless customer and utility agree otherwise, and prohibits automatic withdrawal of funds before the due date without customer consent.

Protects residential customers enrolled in compliant payment plans from service termination except for rule violations, health/safety concerns, emergencies, or commission orders; allows payment plans for past-due amounts except those related to theft or tampering.

Establishes eligibility for payment plans for individuals receiving documentation from specified assistance programs including TANF, SNAP, SSI, SSDI, HEAP, and other income-based programs identified by the commission.