Maine 2023-2024 Regular Session

Maine Senate Bill LD925

Introduced
3/2/23  
Refer
3/2/23  
Engrossed
5/16/23  
Enrolled
5/18/23  

Caption

An Act to Allow the Baileyville Utilities District to Disconnect Water Service for a Customer's Failure to Pay for Sewer Service Provided by the Town of Baileyville

Impact

The passage of LD925 would have significant implications on the regulatory landscape for utility management within the Baileyville area. It allows the district to legally disconnect water services if the terms set forth by the Public Utilities Commission and state laws are adhered to. This change promotes accountability among customers regarding their financial responsibilities for essential services, thereby ensuring that necessary revenues are secured for the provision of utilities.

Summary

LD925, also known as an Act to Allow the Baileyville Utilities District to Disconnect Water Service for a Customer's Failure to Pay for Sewer Service Provided by the Town of Baileyville, aims to empower the local utility district with the authority to disconnect water services from customers who do not fulfill their payment obligations for sewer services. The legislation seeks to establish a clearer and more enforceable framework for managing customer accounts and their associated liabilities concerning utility services.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding LD925 appears to lean towards support, especially among local government officials and utility district representatives who argue that the bill is a necessary tool for enhancing revenue collection and ensuring consistent service delivery. However, there may be concerns from customer advocates who worry about the potential for undue hardship on vulnerable populations that could arise from strict disconnection practices.

Contention

Notable points of contention include the potential consequences for customers who may face disconnection due to unforeseen financial hardships. While the bill sets guidelines for disconnection, critics may argue that it does not account for situations where customers genuinely struggle to pay their bills. Discussion around the bill's implementation could bring to light varying perspectives on the balance between enforcing payments and providing customer protections.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

ME HB2268

Relating to disconnection notices for water and sewer service.

ME HB704

Relating to the disconnection of service provided to residential customers by certain utilities and propane gas distribution system retailers.

ME SB57

Utilities: disconnection of residential service.

ME SB598

Public utilities: gas and electric service disconnections.

ME SB631

Prohibiting municipalities from disconnecting water service for nonpayment of stormwater fees

ME HB1519

Relating to the disconnection of electric services to certain customers.

ME SB340

Utilities; prohibitions on the disconnection of utility services under certain conditions, provided

ME SB480

Public utilities; municipal utilities, disconnection of service, consumer protections.

ME HB1054

Residential customers; disconnection prohibitions for certain utilities.

ME HB906

Public utilities; municipal utilities, disconnection of service, consumer protections.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.