ALBANY  — Senate Democrats in New York voted down a Republican-backed proposal aimed at providing immediate relief on utility bills for residents grappling with rising energy costs.  The amendment, introduced on the Senate floor by Sen. Rob Rolison (R, Poughkeepsie), would have established a one-year suspension of utility bill taxes and surcharges, as well as a two-year holiday on green energy taxes. According to Rolison, government taxes, fees, and mandates account for approximately one-third of a typical customer’s utility bill.

“As the sponsor of Senate Bill S8463, I’m proud to offer immediate relief to families and small businesses in the Hudson Valley and across New York who are facing skyrocketing utility costs,” Rolison said in a statement. “This bill delivers a one-year utility bill tax and surcharge holiday and a two-year green energy tax holiday, easing financial burdens right now. I hear the concerns of residents struggling with affordability, and we will continue fighting for solutions that put families and local businesses first.”

Republican senators argued the measure would have acted as a lifeline for ratepayers overwhelmed by rising costs and state mandates. The proposal did not advance after being rejected by the Senate’s Democratic majority.


Original article
Add as a preferred source on Google