
BROOKLYN — STATE SENATOR KEVIN PARKER announced a legislative package aimed at modernizing utility regulations and safeguarding ratepayers across New York, addressing the state’s ongoing affordability crisis. As chair of the Senate Energy and Telecommunications Committee, Parker is leading the push to hold utility companies accountable while ensuring fair and affordable access to essential services.
“The affordability of utilities is not a luxury; it’s a basic right,” said Parker. “This package ensures no New Yorker is left behind and holds utility companies accountable for their failures.”
The package includes bills to limit the practice of “estimated billing” and force companies to go strictly by the meter, strengthen storm response compliance, establish affordable payment plans and cap fixed residential charges. It also mandates economic impact reviews for rate hikes and improves protections during utility investigations, as well as automatically re-enrolling low-income households in the Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program.
With Senate approval secured, Parker is focused on advancing the legislation through the Assembly and onto the Governor’s desk.
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SUNSET PARK — “As a resident of Marine Park, one of the great surprises I found biking around Industry City and visiting Japan Village was to discover Bush Terminal Park. I continue to be amazed at the serene hideaways that the city offers in some of the busiest places — and, still, with an iconic view.”

BROOKLYN HEIGHTS — ‘A miracle that no one was killed …’ That’s what neighbors are saying about the collapse of the Hotel St. George marquee. Shown in this photograph are workmen beginning the removal and repair of the historic, old neon sign at the corner, referencing a relic of Brooklyn Heights’ past: the St. George Hotel.

ATLANTIC AVENUE — Exhausted shopper with cluster of bags and goods from mall at Boerum Place stops to look at huge construction site across the street. “Is that REALLY going to be a jail??” Her male companion is reassuring, “Nothing like Rikers … this is 21st Century.”
BROOKLYN HEIGHTS — Overheard in line at one of most popular pastry outlets on Montague Street: “Hope I can get them into a camp …” A mother with two pre-schoolers in tow was showing a friend the Dodge Y flyer for Healthy Kids Day on Saturday, April 18.