Michigan Senate Bill SB0551

Michigan 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 10/3/23
• Refer: 10/3/23

Caption

Public utilities: water utilities; water shutoff protection act; enact. Creates new act. TIE BAR WITH: SB 0550'23, SB 0549'23

Impact

The bill enforces stricter requirements on water providers before they can initiate a shutoff of services. Providers are required to contact customers multiple times through various methods, including personal visits and direct notifications, outlining delinquent accounts and available payment options. It further states that no shutoff can occur until at least 120 days of nonpayment have elapsed and that eligible customers enrolled in low-income assistance programs must not be disconnected while complying with those programs.

Summary

Senate Bill 551, also known as the Water Shutoff Protection Act, is designed to regulate the practices of retail water service providers in Michigan, particularly in relation to the shutoff of water services for nonpayment. The bill includes provisions that protect vulnerable populations, such as critical care customers who require continuous access to water for medical reasons. It mandates that water providers cannot shut off services for these customers while emphasizing the importance of delivering timely notifications regarding delinquent accounts and potential shutoffs.

Contention

One notable aspect of Senate Bill 551 is the balance it seeks between the rights of water service providers to enforce payment and the protections for customers, particularly those in financial distress. Supporters of the bill argue that it safeguards public health and welfare by ensuring that low-income households and critical care patients have continuous access to water. However, there may be concerns regarding the financial implications for water service providers, who must navigate these regulations while managing their operational costs. The tension between maintaining service reliability for all customers and ensuring equitable access for those in need is likely to be a point of ongoing discussion in legislative circles.