The proposed bill, titled "An Act to promote affordable utility services in the Commonwealth," aims to enhance consumer protections and affordability in utility services across Massachusetts. Key provisions include the requirement for the Department of Public Utilities to hold at least one public hearing and a 30-day comment period before approving any rate increases, ensuring that notifications are accessible to the public. Additionally, the bill introduces a cap on delivery fee increases for investor-owned electric and gas companies, limiting them to a maximum of 3 percent per year, adjusted for inflation based on the Consumer Price Index.

Furthermore, the bill establishes two new utility rate reduction programs targeting specific demographics: veterans and seniors aged 65 and older. The Veteran Utility Rate Reduction Program will provide discounts aligned with existing low-income structures, while the Senior Utility Rate Reduction Program will offer discounted utility delivery fees for eligible seniors. The legislation also calls for the formation of a special commission to study utility delivery fee structures and recommend reforms to enhance pricing transparency and efficiency. This commission will consist of various stakeholders and is tasked with submitting a report on its findings within twelve months of the bill's passage.