Assembly Republicans in New York have a plan to reduce energy costs for ratepayers that includes the distribution of rebates similar to the rollout of last year’s inflation refund checks.
The proposed income-based rebate checks are part of their “Lights On With Energy Relief,” or LOWER, plan, which was revealed on Tuesday, Feb. 24. Around the same number of New Yorkers who received funds through the state’s Inflation Refund Check Program — about 8.2 million — would benefit from the energy rebate program, if approved.
These lawmakers are also pushing for around $2 billion in surplus or unspent funds from New York State Energy and Research Development Authority’s Clean Energy Fund to be returned to ratepayers in the form of a bill credit.
The relief could be well-received as more than 400,000 households had their gas or electric service shut off last year and the total owed from overdue bills is approaching $2 billion.
Here’s what to know about how much money could land in your pocket.
How much money could you receive from utility bill refunds, rebates?
If the Energy Price Rebate Check Program is passed, New Yorkers could receive up to $400, depending on income level and tax filing status. Here’s a breakdown of how much Assembly Republicans say you might see:
Through the bill credit proposal, legislators say an estimated $2.4 billion could be available for ratepayers.
What energy cost relief are Assembly Democrats proposing?
Assemblymember Didi Barrett, a Democrat who represents the mid-Hudson Valley, sent a letter to Gov. Kathy Hochul on Feb. 20 outlining the Assembly Democrats’ plan to cut energy costs.
In addition to supporting a return of NYSERDA Clean Energy Fund surplus through bill credits, the state lawmakers are seeking these additional changes:
“New Yorkers need immediate and real relief from increased utility costs,” the letter reads. “Life needs to be affordable.”
Contributing: New York State Team reporter Thomas C. Zambito
Emily Barnes covers state government for the USA TODAY Network-New York with a focus on how policy and laws impact New Yorkers’ taxes, communities and jobs. Follow her on Instagram or X @byemilybarnes. Get in touch at ebarnes@usatodayco.com.
This article originally appeared on Rockland/Westchester Journal News: Energy rebate check plan would pay New Yorkers based on income
Reporting by Emily Barnes, New York State Team / Rockland/Westchester Journal News
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