Pennsylvania House Bill HB1213

Pennsylvania 2025-2026 Regular Session

• Introduced: 4/15/25
• Refer: 4/15/25

Caption

In municipal authorities, providing for customer notice of atypical water usage; and, in rates and distribution systems, providing for customer notice of atypical water usage.

Impact

If enacted, HB 1213 would change existing statutes in Titles 53 and 66 of the Pennsylvania Consolidated Statutes. Specifically, it introduces provisions that require utilities to proactively communicate with customers about significant shifts in consumption. This could potentially lead to a more informed public that is better equipped to address water efficiency issues and could encourage the adoption of measures aimed at conserving water resources. Furthermore, the implications of the bill underscore a strategic approach towards addressing environmental concerns related to water usage in municipal settings.

Summary

House Bill 1213 seeks to mandate that municipal authorities and public utilities in Pennsylvania notify customers when their water usage has increased by 200% compared to their average usage. The bill aims to enhance consumer awareness regarding atypical water consumption, which could indicate potential leaks or inefficiencies. By requiring these notifications, the bill is designed to promote more responsible water usage among residents and reduce wastage, aligning with broader goals of water conservation and environmental sustainability.

Sentiment

The sentiment around HB 1213 appears to be predominantly supportive among legislators and environmental advocates, who view enhanced customer notification as a proactive step toward reducing unnecessary water usage. Many participants in discussions on the bill express optimism that it will contribute positively to environmental sustainability. However, there may also be some concerns regarding the implementation aspects, such as the effectiveness of communication strategies and the burden on utilities to manage increased customer inquiries.

Contention

There are potential contentions to consider with HB 1213, primarily concerning its practical enforcement and the degree of responsibility placed on utility companies. Some critics may argue about the feasibility of accurately tracking and notifying customers about atypical usage, particularly for large municipal systems with diverse customer bases. Furthermore, there is a concern that without appropriate oversight or guidance, the bill could lead to inconsistencies in how these notifications are handled across different municipalities, affecting the overall effectiveness of the initiative.