Assemblyman Scott Gray (R-Watertown) released the latest episode of “The Gray Area,” highlighting major bills expected to emerge as the Assembly approaches the final weeks of the 2025-26 Legislative Session. With high-stakes proposals on energy costs, recycling mandates and correction reform on the horizon, Gray is urging constituents to look beyond the headlines and consider how these measures could impact families, small businesses and consumers.

Gray took a deep dive into some of the bills reported to be upcoming, including the HEAT Act, a bill that caps energy cost increases for low-income households at 6%. Gray warned it would shift the financial burden to middle-income families and small businesses.

“The HEAT Act looks good on the surface, but what it’s going to come down to is a possible shift in cost. If 30% of New Yorkers are protected from rising costs, the other 70% will be left picking up the tab,” said Gray.

He also raised concerns about the bill’s aggressive push toward electrification, including a proposed change to the “100-foot rule,” which currently requires utilities to provide gas hookups within 100 feet of a main. Under the new proposal, homeowners could be required to shoulder the cost of electrification upgrades, even if their homes aren’t ready.

“Grid modernization driven by the Climate Leadership and Community Protection Act is already driving utility bills higher. The HEAT Act is another mechanism that will increase costs.”

Another bill on Gray’s radar is the Packaging Reduction and Recycling Infrastructure Act, formerly known as the Extended Producer Responsibility Act. While promoted as a way to reduce single-use plastics, Gray said the bill fails to account for advanced recycling technologies and will likely lead to increased costs for consumers.

“Any time you increase operating costs for businesses—especially those in the food industry—those costs get passed on to consumers,” Gray said. “It’s another example of Albany saying one thing about affordability while doing another.”

In addition to these bills, Gray said he anticipates legislation related to correction and oversight within the New York state prison system to emerge before session ends. This week, he also welcomed visitors to the Capitol for several advocacy events:

• In collaboration with the New York State Office for the Aging, he recognized Sylvia Buduson of Jefferson County during Older New Yorkers Day, presenting her with a formal proclamation for her contributions to the community. Linda Wilkinson of St. Lawrence County was also honored and will receive her recognition in-district.
• Gray met with youth advocates for food and environmental allergy awareness, a cause he personally relates to.
• He also greeted representatives from the Laborers’ International Union of North America during their advocacy day at the Capitol.

“We’re going to be going full-on until the end of June, and we’ll keep you posted as legislation continues to unfold. Look out for next week’s episode of The Gray Area as we continue to update you on what you care about. We always appreciate the opportunity to serve you and to work with you. Don’t hesitate to call my office staff with questions, comments or concerns—see you soon,” Gray concluded.