NY A06540

Requires gas corporations, electric corporations, municipalities, waterworks corporations, municipal water systems, telephone corporations, and cable television companies to establish 10 percent discount programs for low-income senior citizens and individuals with disabilities within 90 days of the law's effective date.

Prohibits the fiscal impact of discount programs from being borne by other customers or added to utility bills.

Defines "low-income senior citizen" as individuals age 65+ with household income under $50,000 for two consecutive tax years beginning in 2020, or those eligible for emergency rental assistance or home energy assistance programs.

Defines "individuals with a disability" as accountholders with disabilities receiving SSDI, SSI, VA disability benefits, USPS disability benefits, or medical assistance based on disability determination, with household income under $50,000 for two consecutive tax years beginning in 2020.

Requires utilities to conspicuously advertise discount availability on their websites and accessibility pages; allows telephone and cable companies to satisfy requirements through participation in federal Lifeline or Affordable Connectivity programs unless the Public Service Commission deems them insufficient.