Clarifies intent of P.L.2018, c.74 regarding local government utility connection fees.
Impact
The implications of A1300 extend to local government utilities, specifically affecting sewerage authorities and municipal authorities. By clearly defining the rules surrounding connection fees for disconnections lasting more than five years without payment of service charges, the bill provides guidance for these authorities in their practices. This act helps resolve potential confusion and creates a more standardized approach to handling reconnections, potentially easing the financial burden on some property owners while strengthening revenue for local utilities.
Summary
Assembly Bill A1300 aims to clarify the intent of P.L.2018, c.74 regarding the imposition of connection fees by local government utilities on properties that were previously disconnected from service. This bill specifically states the conditions under which these connection fees can be charged and revises certain provisions to prevent any misinterpretation of existing law. It is essential for ensuring that local authorities can appropriately manage the fees associated with reconnecting properties that have been off the utility grid for extended periods.
Contention
One notable area of contention related to A1300 involves the balance between collecting appropriate fees for utility services and ensuring that property owners are not unduly penalized. Some discussions may arise concerning the fairness of implementing fees retroactively for long-disconnected properties, especially if those properties have not had any service charges paid for a protracted period. As a result, stakeholders such as local governments and property owners might express differing views on how best to handle disconnections and reconnections.
Requires BPU to conduct study of effect of coronavirus 2019 pandemic on local and public utility service and to quarterly collect and publish certain local and public utility service and customer information.
Requires BPU to conduct study of effect of coronavirus 2019 pandemic on local and public utility service and to quarterly collect and publish certain local and public utility service and customer information.
Prohibits sewerage authorities, municipal authorities, and local units of government from charging interest on unpaid sewer fees and charges attributable to State or local entities, including housing authorities.
Prohibits sewerage authorities, municipal authorities, and local units of government from charging interest on unpaid sewer fees and charges attributable to State or local entities, including housing authorities.