An Act Requiring Electric Distribution Companies To Credit Customers For Prolonged Service Outages.
Impact
The intended impact of HB06013 is to enhance consumer protections regarding utility service reliability within the state. By imposing a financial obligation on electric distribution companies to compensate customers during extended outages, the bill aims to incentivize these companies to improve their service reliability and response time during service disruptions. This change could also lead to greater customer satisfaction and trust towards utility service providers.
Summary
House Bill 06013, introduced by Representative Kupchick, seeks to amend title 16 of the general statutes to mandate that electric distribution companies are required to credit customers for prolonged service outages. Specifically, the bill stipulates that for every five consecutive days of an outage, customers should receive a credit equivalent to one day's service. This legislative measure is designed to hold utility companies accountable for failures in service provision, ensuring that customers are compensated for disruptions.
Contention
While the bill is designed to offer financial recourse to consumers, it may spark debates regarding the feasibility and implications for electric distribution companies. Critics may argue that implementing such a credit system could strain utility revenues, potentially leading to increased rates for consumers overall. Supporters, however, see the bill as a necessary measure to promote accountability among utility providers and to prioritize customer rights in the face of service failures.