DC Water Disconnection and Billing Clarification Emergency Declaration Resolution of 2025
Impact
If enacted, the bill would have significant implications for state law and the operation of DC Water by explicitly defining the authority it has to charge late fees on unpaid water bills. By reinforcing that late fees can be applied under certain conditions, the bill seeks to incentivize timely payments from both landlords and tenants. Moreover, it aims to establish protections for individuals living in multi-unit buildings so they are not unfairly penalized for their landlords' overdue bills, thereby addressing public health and welfare concerns.
Summary
PR26-0279, also known as the DC Water Disconnection and Billing Clarification Emergency Declaration Resolution of 2025, aims to address ongoing issues related to the disconnection of water services by the DC Water and Sewer Authority (DC Water). The bill proposes to clarify the authority of DC Water regarding late fees and penalties on water service bills, as well as to enhance transparency by requiring regular updates to city agencies about disconnection activities. This initiative is partly in response to accumulating unpaid water bills and the challenges tenants face when their buildings are disconnected from water services due to the failure of landlords to pay bills.
Contention
Despite its intended benefits, PR26-0279 has faced contention from various stakeholders. Advocates argue that it is essential for protecting vulnerable populations, such as children and the elderly, from the repercussions of water service disconnections. Critics, however, express concerns about the potential for increased fees burdening low-income residents while advocating for stronger protections against disconnections. The discussions indicate a broader debate on balancing the need for utility companies to collect debts while ensuring basic service access for all residents, particularly those in precarious financial situations.