Connecticut House Bill HB05797

Connecticut 2013 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/24/13
• Refer: 1/24/13

Caption

An Act Concerning Termination Of Utility Service By A Municipal Electric Utility For Nonpayment In A Life-threatening Situation.

Impact

The bill is intended to enhance consumer protections specifically for those facing financial and health-related hardships when it comes to their utility payments. By ensuring that utility services are not terminated in life-threatening situations, the legislation aims to provide a layer of security for customers, particularly those who may rely heavily on electric service for medical equipment or other life-sustaining needs. This change would significantly affect how municipal electric utilities handle delinquent accounts and the criteria they use to evaluate payment disruptions due to serious health conditions.

Summary

House Bill 05797 proposes amendments to section 16-262c of the general statutes concerning the termination of utility services by municipal electric utilities due to nonpayment. The main objective of the bill is to clarify the definition of what constitutes a life-threatening situation for customers. This clarification is essential to ensure that vulnerable individuals are not abruptly cut off from essential utility services during a crisis or critical health circumstances.

Contention

While the bill seeks to protect the health and safety of vulnerable customers, discussions may arise concerning how the definition of a life-threatening situation is established and applied. Stakeholders may express concerns about the implications for utility operations and the potential for increased financial strain on municipal utilities. The clarity in definitions will be crucial to balancing customer protections with the commercial realities of utilities, especially as they navigate issues of revenue and service provision.