Prohibit rate charges in excess of rates applied if tenant of residential complexes with electrical master-meters receives electricity directly from a public utility.
Impact
If enacted, HB 7695 would significantly impact statutory regulations governing public utilities and tenant rights in Rhode Island. It emphasizes accountability among landlords and master-meter customers, providing a safeguard against potential misuse that could lead to unjust utility charges for tenants. Moreover, the measure would ensure that all residential tenants, regardless of the size of the complex or their individual circumstances, receive equitable treatment regarding their electricity rates. This legislation signals a shift towards more stringent protections for tenants in multi-unit housing situations.
Summary
House Bill 7695 aims to amend existing regulations concerning the use of electrical master-meters in residential complexes, particularly those containing more than ten apartments or dwelling units. The bill prohibits the use of master-meters in these settings, ensuring that each apartment or unit will have individual measuring devices for electricity consumption. Additionally, it mandates that tenants who receive electricity through a master-meter cannot be charged rates higher than those applicable if they received electricity directly from a public utility. This change is intended to enhance fairness for tenants living in residential complexes, ensuring that they are not subjected to inflated electricity rates.
Contention
Although the bill focuses on protecting tenants, there may be opposition from landlords and property managers who argue that the prohibition of master-meters could increase their management complexities and operational costs. Critics may also fear that the immediate implementation of such measures could lead to unintended consequences for housing development and affordability, particularly in larger residential complexes that rely on master-meter systems for economic efficiency. The ongoing discussions surrounding HB 7695 suggest a broader debate on balancing tenant protections with the operational realities of property management.