Michigan Senate Bill SB0722

Michigan 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/21/24
• Refer: 2/21/24

Caption

Public utilities: other; transfer of utility to tenant; provide for. Amends sec. 1 of 1939 PA 178 (MCL 123.161) & adds sec. 4a. TIE BAR WITH: SB 0554'23

Impact

If enacted, SB 0722 would influence current state regulations governing utility service management, particularly the relationship between utility providers and residential tenants. It is expected to empower tenants by facilitating their ability to request utility services directly from providers, minimizing the jurisdictional challenges that may arise when a utility's customer is not the property owner. This legislative change would reflect an increased focus on tenant rights, potentially impacting local governmental policies surrounding housing and public utility services.

Summary

Senate Bill 0722 seeks to amend Michigan's 1939 PA 178, specifically to provide for the transfer of water or sewage system services to tenants upon request. The bill aims to clarify the definition of 'provider' as any publicly or privately owned community water supply while ensuring that tenants, identified as 'lessees', have direct access to utility services from their landlords. By adding this provision, the bill encourages better access to necessary utilities for renters, thereby promoting tenant rights in connection with their living conditions.

Contention

Discussion surrounding SB 0722 may reveal contention points, particularly from landlord advocacy groups that may perceive the bill as an infringement on their rights to manage utility services. Opponents may argue that the responsibilities placed on providers could complicate relationships with landlords and create logistical challenges in service transfers. Given the historic concentration of control over utility management by property owners, there is likely to be pushback on measures that encourage tenant autonomy in this area, reflecting broader debates over housing and landlord-tenant laws.