Prohibits electric, gas, or water public utility service discontinuances to residential customers during certain epidemics.
Impact
The legislation would amend the existing laws in Title 48 of the Revised Statutes, establishing safeguards for residential customers. These safeguards include a mandatory resumption of service for customers who previously had their service disconnected due to nonpayment before the epidemic declaration. However, these provisions would only remain in effect until the Governor rescinds the public health emergency declaration. Customers who fail to pay their bills during the epidemic will still be responsible for any outstanding balance once the emergency is lifted, indicating a balance between protecting customers and holding them accountable for their financial obligations.
Summary
Senate Bill 2670 aims to protect residential customers from the disconnection of utility services during declared epidemics, such as the recent Coronavirus pandemic. The bill prohibits electric, gas, or water public utilities from discontinuing services for nonpayment during such times unless there is a public utility emergency. This provision is designed to ensure that residents maintain access to essential utilities when they may be facing financial hardships due to uncontrollable circumstances like an epidemic.
Contention
Key points of contention might arise around the interpretation of what constitutes a public utility emergency and how effectively this bill can be enforced during public health crises. Some may argue that while the intention is noble, the bill could place undue strain on public utilities that depend on stable revenue from customer payments. Additionally, as it limits the ability of public utilities to disconnect service, concerns regarding potential misuse or exploitation by residents around payment responsibilities might be raised. Ultimately, while the bill seeks to provide immediate relief, its long-term ramifications need careful consideration.
Prohibits public utilities from discontinuing residential electric, gas, water, and sewer service after expiration of coronavirus public health emergency; requires public utilities to implement deferred payment agreements for services.
Prohibits public utilities from discontinuing residential electric, gas, water, and sewer service during coronavirus 2019 state of emergency; requires those utilities to implement deferred payment agreements for those services.
Public utilities; require electric supplier to hold the proposed discontinuation of electrical service to a residential customer who suffers from a serious illness in abeyance for a certain period of time
Concerns notification requirements for certain utility assistance programs; repeals law establishing notification requirements for public and local utilities during coronavirus 2019 pandemic.