NY S08535

Requires the Public Service Commission to mandate electric and natural gas utilities establish reduced rate programs for residential customers who are furloughed or designated non-pay federal employees during federal government appropriations lapses

Spreads the revenue impact of rate reductions across customer classes rather than burdening any single class of customers

Establishes eligibility standards requiring customers to provide documentation proving their furlough or non-pay status resulting from a lapse in federal discretionary appropriations

Mandates utilities provide information and application forms for reduced rates through websites, offices, bill inserts, and communications with customers in arrears

Requires utilities to implement reduced rates within 30 days of the law taking effect and file periodic reports on eligible customers receiving assistance; the law expires one year after enactment