Assemblyman Scott Gray (R-Watertown) sat down with Assembly Radio-TV Producer Ted Flint for another Assembly Update, where he addressed recent roadway accidents that prompted his push for stronger safety legislation, the factors driving up utility rates and strategies to stabilize energy costs, and the ongoing challenges with the state’s rollout of the Consumer Directed Personal Assistance Program (CDPAP).

Gray discussed several recent high-profile accidents involving motor carriers and buses, many of which resulted in preventable fatalities due to a lack of seatbelt use. He outlined legislation he has introduced to improve passenger safety, including requirements for operational seatbelts, pre-trip safety briefings and stronger en route inspections of motor coaches. Gray details each bill in the video, emphasizing the goal of creating a “culture of safety” similar to the precautions passengers expect on airlines.

With National Grid, New York State Electric and Gas and Con Edison raising utility rates, Gray pointed to the accelerated implementation of New York’s Climate Leadership and Community Protection Act (CLCPA) as a major factor driving costs. He emphasized the need to balance emission-reduction goals with affordability, noting the importance of maintaining existing energy sources—and tapping into nuclear power—until the grid can reliably handle increased demand from electrification and manufacturing growth.

“NYSISO, the state grid operator, has been warning for years that we’re headed toward collapsing the grid,” Gray said. “Demand is increasing exponentially from rushed electrification and new energy-intensive industries, and it’s projected to double by 2030. Maybe Albany leaders forgot to carry the one, or whatever ‘Albany math’ they’re using, it doesn’t add up for the rest of us. Not without major cost spikes and a greater risk of blackouts.”

Gray also spoke about the troubled rollout of the state’s new CDPAP fiscal intermediary, PPL, citing ongoing issues with provider payments, health insurance and Department of Health oversight. He pointed to concerns raised during a recent Senate hearing and said he hopes to deliver a more positive update in a future episode.

Watch the full video to hear Gray’s insights on these topics.