The bill enacts R.S. 33:4159.3, which introduces a fixed monthly billing option for residential customers of the Sewerage and Water Board of New Orleans. Under this new provision, customers will have the choice to pay a fixed rate determined by their average monthly service costs based on recent water meter readings. The board is required to notify each residential customer of this option and the corresponding fixed rate. Additionally, the bill establishes an arbitration program for customers who dispute their bills, allowing them to seek resolution through appointed arbiters from each councilmanic district.
The arbitration process includes the appointment of two arbiters per district, one for residential and one for commercial disputes. Customers can appeal their bill disputes to the appropriate arbitration team, which will hold regular public meetings to address cases. If an arbiter finds that the billed amount is incorrect, they will notify the board to adjust the bill accordingly. The bill also defines "residential customer" and "commercial customer" for clarity in its application. The provisions of this act are set to take effect within 120 days of its passage.