Relating to utility bill payment protection for elderly or disabled persons.
Impact
The bill also allows for deferral of payment for up to three months, enabling individuals to spread their payments over multiple billing cycles without late fees. This is intended to ease the financial burden on those who are often on fixed incomes or facing additional expenses due to their disability. By ensuring that utilities cannot penalize these individuals for late payments, SB630 aims to promote stability and security for vulnerable populations and assists in preventing service disconnections.
Summary
SB630 seeks to enhance protections for elderly individuals and those with disabilities regarding utility bill payments in Texas. It amends the Utilities Code to allow eligible individuals to request a delay in their utility bill payment without incurring penalties. Specifically, this bill provides a framework for these individuals to postpone their payment until the 25th day after the bill is issued, offering some relief to those who may struggle financially due to their circumstances.
Contention
While the bill is largely seen as a positive step toward supporting the elderly and disabled, discussions may arise concerning the practicality of implementation for utility companies. Some stakeholders may express concerns about the financial implications for utility providers when accommodating delayed payments for a segment of the customer base. Additionally, there could be debates regarding the sufficiency of proof required to qualify for the protections offered under the new legislation, as some might advocate for broader definitions of qualifying disabilities.
Relating to the determination and reporting of the number of residence homesteads of elderly or disabled persons that are subject to the limitation on the total amount of ad valorem taxes that may be imposed on the properties by school districts, or who utilize the property tax deferral program in section 33.06, Tax Code.
Relating to penalty and interest incurred on a delinquent ad valorem tax imposed on the residence homestead of an individual who is elderly or disabled.