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The Hudson Valley Power Authority (S2026, A2127) and other similar public power initiatives raise significant concerns, particularly about the impact on local governments, utility workers, and customers. While the push for public power is often framed as a way to improve local control over energy resources and reduce costs, the reality is far more complex and potentially problematic. Several critical issues need to be addressed in the discussion surrounding these public power initiatives such as the realities of financial burdens, loss of jobs, and the impacts on pensions which makes it a complex and potentially risky proposition. The shift to public power could lead to higher costs for customers, reduced services, and a workforce facing uncertainty about their jobs and retirement security. Therefore, any proposal to acquire a private utility must be carefully examined to ensure that the economic and social costs do not outweigh the potential benefits. Without a thorough analysis of these factors, public power initiatives like the Hudson Valley Power Authority (S9534) could cause more harm than good to communities, workers, and customers alike. https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2023/S9534
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