The Utility Disconnection Protection Act of 2025 aims to protect vulnerable households in the District of Columbia from utility disconnections during extreme weather months. Specifically, the bill prohibits electric and gas companies from disconnecting service for protected households, which include families with children under 18, seniors aged 65 and older, individuals with disabilities, pregnant individuals, and those receiving certain public assistance. The disconnection protection is set to be in effect from May 15 to September 15 and from November 1 to February 29. Additionally, the bill mandates the establishment of guidelines for payment plans for eligible customers, ensuring that they are offered a payment plan and limiting the fees associated with reconnecting services after disconnection.

Furthermore, the legislation requires utility providers to report data on unpaid bills and disconnections to the Public Service Commission on a monthly basis. It also stipulates that utility providers must waive late fees and not sell uncollected debt accrued during the protected months. The bill is a more permanent and focused version of protections that were previously in place during the COVID-19 pandemic, addressing the significant impact of utility disconnections on the health and financial stability of residents, particularly in low-income and marginalized communities.