Authorizes the New York state energy research and development authority to develop a temporary middle income home energy assistance program; suspend taxes on home heating fuels; appropriation

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Jeremy Cooney and 2 co-sponsors

Bill S 4671 helps middle-income New Yorkers by providing temporary energy assistance and suspending taxes on heating fuels to reduce energy costs.

REFERRED TO FINANCE

Summary of Bill S 4671

Title: Authorizes the New York State Energy Research and Development Authority to Develop a Temporary Middle Income Home Energy Assistance Program; Suspend Taxes on Home Heating Fuels; Appropriation

Bill Number: S 4671
Introduced On: February 11, 2025
Current Status: Referred to Finance
Classification: Bill

Purpose and Intent

Bill S 4671 aims to address the rising energy costs faced by middle-income households in New York State. The legislation seeks to establish a temporary assistance program specifically designed to help these households manage their home energy expenses, particularly during periods of high demand or price surges. Additionally, the bill proposes the suspension of taxes on home heating fuels to provide immediate financial relief.

Key Provisions

Temporary Middle Income Home Energy Assistance Program:

The bill authorizes the New York State Energy Research and Development Authority (NYSERDA) to create and implement a program that offers financial assistance to middle-income households struggling with home energy costs.
The specifics of the assistance, including eligibility criteria and benefit amounts, will be determined by NYSERDA.

Suspension of Taxes on Home Heating Fuels:

The bill proposes a temporary suspension of state taxes on home heating fuels. This measure is intended to reduce the overall cost of heating for households during the winter months or periods of increased energy prices.

Appropriation:

The bill includes provisions for the appropriation of funds necessary to implement the assistance program and cover the costs associated with the tax suspension.

Impact

Affected Population:

The primary beneficiaries of this bill will be middle-income households in New York State who are facing challenges in affording home energy costs. This demographic is often overlooked in energy assistance programs that typically focus on low-income families.

Economic Relief:

By suspending taxes on home heating fuels, the bill aims to provide immediate financial relief to households, potentially lowering their monthly energy expenses.

Energy Management:

The establishment of a dedicated assistance program may encourage better energy management practices among recipients, as they will have access to resources and support from NYSERDA.

Procedural Aspects

Legislative Action:

As of February 11, 2025, the bill has been referred to the Finance Committee for further consideration. The timeline for subsequent actions, including hearings or votes, will depend on the committee's schedule.

Related Legislation:

This bill is related to prior-session bills S 9574 and S 3136, which may provide context or background on similar legislative efforts regarding energy assistance in New York.

In summary, Bill S 4671 represents a proactive approach to alleviating energy costs for middle-income families in New York, with the potential for significant economic relief through both direct assistance and tax suspension measures.