In an editorial by the Buffalo News they press the need for the Governor to veto a bill that calls for utilities to pay prevailing wages to services with which they contract. This bill is estimated to cost more than $18.3 million,much of which will be past along to the tax payer.

“Gov. David A. Paterson, who wielded his veto power very effectively in shaping the state budget, needs to keep that pen handy. Yet to come his way is a deceitful measure that will needlessly drive up energy costs for New Yorkers.

The bill was passed by both houses of the New York State Legislature, once again demonstrating that it doesn’t understand the meaning of the words “financial crisis.” New York and its residents are sinking under the weight of a raft of disastrous state policies, yet lawmakers saw fit to take this, of all moments, to stick it to voters once again.

The measure would, for the first time, require utilities such as National Grid and National Fuel to pay prevailing wages to services with which they contract — landscapers, for example. National Grid estimates that this thievery will cost it $18.3 million, which it will pass along to its customers who, thanks to Albany, already pay some of the nation’s highest electric rates.”

To read more click here.