This Amendment makes the following changes to HS 1 to HB 62: 1.

Plain English Breakdown

The source material lists specific changes but does not define technical terms like 'Heat Index' or provide context on enforcement penalties.

Amendment to Utility Shut-Off Rules

This amendment changes rules for when and how utility companies can cut off power, including temperature measurements, contact attempts, notice methods, and weekend shut-offs.

What This Bill Does

• Requires utility companies to measure daily temperatures from an airport in the same county as the home instead of a location within 50 miles.
• Reduces required documented contact attempts with account holders before shutting off service during heating season from three to two.
• Updates language to refer to the 'account holder' rather than the 'adult occupant.'
• Raises the Heat Index threshold for allowing shut-offs from 90 degrees to 95 degrees.
• Removes the rule that written notices must be sent via First Class mail during heating or cooling seasons.
• Changes the effective date of the law to 90 days after it becomes law, instead of 60 days.
• Allows utility companies to cut off service on weekends if they offer payment and restoration options on those days.

Who It Names or Affects

• Utility and electric companies
• Account holders

Limits and Unknowns

• The official text does not specify the exact calendar date when these changes will take effect, only that it is 90 days after enactment.

Official Summary Text

This Amendment makes the following changes to HS 1 to HB 62:
1.
This Amendment makes the following changes to HS 1 to HB 62:
1. Requires the utility company to measure the daily temperature from an airport in the same county as the subject dwelling, rather than a location within 50 miles of the subject dwelling;
2. Requires the electric company to make 2, rather than 3, documented attempts to contact the account holder prior to termination of services during the heating season;
3. Changes the term "adult occupant of the dwelling unit" to the "account holder";
4. Increases the Heat Index (determining when electric utilities may be shut off) from 90 degrees to 95 degrees;
5. Removes the requirement that written notice during the heating or cooling season be sent via First Class mail;
6. Changes the Act's effective date from 60 to 90 days after its enactment into law; and
7. Authorizes a utility company to shut off utility services on a weekend if the utility company provides facilities for payment and restoration of services on weekends.