Washington, D.C. — Congressman Josh Riley (NY-19) announced today that he has filed an appeal with the New York State Public Service Commission (PSC) to reverse its decision approving Central Hudson’s latest rate hike on Hudson Valley families. Riley argues the PSC committed legal errors and failed to protect consumers from the utility monopoly and its foreign parent corporation, Fortis.
Riley’s statement on the appeal:
“Hudson Valley families are already stretched thin, and they shouldn’t be forced to line the pockets of a foreign corporation that’s raking in record profits. I’ve been fighting against Central Hudson’s rate hikes since the week I was elected, and I’m continuing that fight with this appeal.
Instead of holding the utility monopoly accountable, the Public Service Commission rubber-stamped yet another rate hike and told us to trust a process that’s clearly broken. While Central Hudson’s foreign parent company hauls in billions, Upstate New Yorkers are told to pay more for heat and lights. That’s wrong, it’s rigged, and it’s why I filed this appeal.”
- Background:
On August 1, 2024, Central Hudson told regulators its current rates were insufficient to sustain its financial integrity. - On November 25, 2024, Riley formally became a party to the Central Hudson rate case by filing an application to intervene with the PSC, citing the unfair burden on Hudson Valley families.
- In quarterly reports to investors on October 31, 2024; April 30, 2025; and July 31, 2025, Central Hudson repeatedly stated its existing rates were sufficient to cover obligations and drive profits.
- During 2025 evidentiary hearings, Riley cross-examined Central Hudson executives about these contradictions, but PSC administrative law judges blocked the reports from the record.
- On August 14, 2025, the PSC approved Central Hudson’s proposal to raise electric and gas rates.
- On September 12, 2025, Riley filed his Motion for Reconsideration, asking the PSC to reverse or stay its order and reopen the record.
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