Establishes "Summer Termination Program" for certain utility customers.
Impact
The bill's regulation is designed to address issues of financial hardship faced by many New Jersey residents, particularly those who are unemployed, suffering from illness, or experiencing other life challenges. By incorporating criteria similar to the existing Winter Termination Program, A5563 aims to provide similar protections against termination, ensuring that vital utility services remain accessible during periods of extreme heat, thereby safeguarding public health and welfare.
Summary
Assembly Bill A5563, introduced in the New Jersey legislature, aims to safeguard residential utility customers from service terminations during excessively hot summer months. Specifically, it establishes a 'Summer Termination Program' that prevents local authorities, municipal utilities, and rural electric cooperatives from discontinuing electric, sewer, or water service to eligible residential customers if the weather forecast predicts a wet bulb globe temperature of 85°F or higher for extended periods. This measure is particularly relevant during summer months when high temperatures can pose serious health risks to vulnerable populations.
Contention
While the bill has garnered support for its intended protection of vulnerable residents, there may be concerns regarding the implementation and efficacy of such a program. There are questions about how local authorities and utilities will adapt to these regulations, particularly in terms of funding for continued service provision without interruption. Additionally, critics may argue that the measures could place undue burdens on public utility operations, affecting their financial viability. As discussions continue, balancing customer protections with operational realities will be a key point of contention.
Concerns notification requirements for certain utility assistance programs; repeals law establishing notification requirements for public and local utilities during coronavirus 2019 pandemic.
Concerns notification requirements for certain utility assistance programs; repeals law establishing notification requirements for public and local utilities during coronavirus 2019 pandemic.
An Act Concerning Utility Customer Payment Plans, Extending The Shutoff Moratorium For Hardship Customers And Permitting Hardship Customers To Enroll With Electric Suppliers.
Requires electric public utilities to establish interest-free revolving loan program to help residential customers purchase standby emergency power generators.
Requires electric public utilities to establish interest-free revolving loan program to help residential customers purchase standby emergency power generators.