Relates to small business energy assistance and advocacy services

◆ The sponsor's argument

Why Christopher Ryan says this is needed

For small businesses, the aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic combined with the skyrocketing cost of utilities has put greater pressure on their financial viability. New York has taken great steps towards better ratepayer protections and methods for cutting the cost of utilities, but small businesses face unique constraints and situations when it comes to dealing with energy costs. Unlike larger businesses which have greater resources to make energy efficiency upgrades and qualify for grant assistance programs, small businesses are left to do their own heavy lifting on energy efficiency and cost cutting, while also shouldering the burden of these costs. This bill would create a "one stop" energy assistance and advocacy program at the Division for Small Business to make it easier for our small business owners to learn about, compare and select energy alterna- tives that will best fit their operations and enable continued growth, while getting streamlined access to utility assistance programs. The program would enhance the ability of New York's small businesses to take advantage of programs offered by NYSERDA, department of public service and investor-owned utilities companies. As well as providing recommendations to these agencies and the legislature to create and improve on initiatives targeted to small business assistance. The Division for Small Business would also be empowered to assist small businesses by formally bringing complaints on their behalf regarding service and price issues related to their energy service. Taken togeth- er, the provisions of this bill will help to ensure that small busi- nesses can take full advantage of conservation, efficiency and renewable energy programs.

This is the sponsor's own case for the bill, quoted from their memorandum. It is not Agora's description of what the bill does.