The enactment of H3680 would amend existing statutes within the General Laws of Massachusetts, particularly chapters 165 and 164, along with chapter 25C. This change would mean that every utility company must undertake an additional administrative task of listing the specific discounts on billing statements. Advocates argue that this increased visibility will empower eligible residents to utilize available financial support, potentially easing their financial burdens associated with utility costs.
Summary
House Bill H3680, presented by Representative Rob Consalvo, aims to enhance the transparency of utility billing for certain vulnerable populations in Massachusetts. The bill seeks to require that all utility bills—specifically those for water, electricity, and gas—include a comprehensive list of available discounts for seniors, veterans, and individuals with disabilities. By mandating that these essential discounts are clearly listed on bills, the legislation intends to improve access to financial relief for those who may be less informed about the available assistance programs.
Contention
While the bill has significant support among advocates for seniors and individuals with disabilities, there may be concerns regarding the implications for utility companies. Some stakeholders might argue about the added burden of compliance and the potential costs associated with modifying billing systems to reflect the changes mandated by this legislation. It will be essential for proponents of the bill to address these concerns, demonstrating that the social benefits of increased transparency and support for vulnerable populations outweigh any administrative challenges faced by utility providers.