The New York State Department of State Division of Consumer Protection has been taking action to stop the aggressive and questionable marketing practices of some energy services companies (ESCOs) operating in New York State. The Division, in conjunction with the New York City Department of Consumer Affairs (DCA), has advocated for and advanced new rules with the New York State Public Service Commission (PSC) establishing mandatory disclosures and enforceable regulations governing ESCO marketing practices, to help better protect consumers.
Among the new consumer protections are rules requiring ESCO representatives to present identification and contact information. In addition, where marketing is conducted to individuals whose primary language is not English the information provided must be in the consumer's primary language.