Establishes a rate counsel to head the utility intervention unit within the consumer protection division.

This bill amends the executive law to establish an independent state utility intervention unit within the consumer protection division, headed by a rate counsel appointed by the governor with the advice and consent of the senate. The rate counsel can appoint staff and perform functions for the efficient operation of the unit. The utility intervention unit has the power and duty to initiate, intervene in, or participate in proceedings before the public service commission or other regulatory agencies, accept and investigate complaints from consumers, and hold regular forums to educate consumers.

Establishes a rate counsel to head the utility intervention unit within the consumer protection division.

This bill amends the executive law to establish an independent state utility intervention unit within the consumer protection division, headed by a rate counsel appointed by the governor with the advice and consent of the senate. The rate counsel can appoint staff and perform functions for the efficient operation of the unit. The utility intervention unit has the power and duty to initiate, intervene in, or participate in proceedings before the public service commission or other regulatory agencies, accept and investigate complaints from consumers, and hold regular forums to educate consumers.