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.
Impact
The legislation amends existing statutes governing public utility services, mandating that utilities enter into deferred payment agreements with customers who have fallen behind on bills. Under these agreements, customers are allowed to make monthly payments over a minimum period of 48 months without the risk of having their service disconnected, provided they comply with the terms. This change aims to alleviate financial stress for residents while ensuring that public utilities continue to provide necessary services.
Summary
Assembly Bill A6253 aims to provide critical protections for residential customers of public utilities during and following the COVID-19 pandemic. Specifically, the bill prohibits public utilities from discontinuing residential electric, gas, water, and sewer services on the grounds of nonpayment of bills for a period of 180 days after the state of emergency expires. This is intended to safeguard vulnerable households from losing essential services during times of economic hardship exacerbated by the pandemic's impact.
Contention
There is potential for contention surrounding this bill, particularly around the balance between protecting consumers and ensuring utilities can maintain financial viability. Some stakeholders may argue that the long deferral of payments could strain utility revenues, while others view the bill as a necessary measure to protect low-income residential customers from the repercussions of economic downturns. The discussion also raises questions about the administrative burden placed on utilities to implement and manage these deferred payment agreements.
Same As
Prohibits public utilities from discontinuing residential electric, gas, water, and sewer service after expiration of coronavirus public health emergency; requires those utilities to implement deferred payment agreements for those services.
Carry Over
Prohibits public utilities from discontinuing residential electric, gas, water, and sewer service after expiration of coronavirus public health emergency; requires those utilities to implement deferred payment agreements for those services.