This bill amends the existing law governing public utilities in Michigan by adding a new section, 9e, which mandates automatic credits for customers of electric utilities who experience service interruptions. Specifically, if a customer has four service interruptions lasting one hour or more within a year, they will receive a $100 credit on their utility bill. If they experience more than four such interruptions, the credit increases to $200. Additionally, the bill requires the Michigan Public Service Commission to review and adjust these credit amounts every five years based on changes in the Consumer Price Index, ensuring that the credits keep pace with inflation.
The bill also defines key terms related to the new provisions, including "Consumer Price Index" and "service interruption." The adjustments to the credit amounts will be rounded to the nearest dollar and announced by June 1 of the year they take effect. This legislative change aims to enhance consumer protection and accountability among electric utility providers in Michigan by providing financial relief to customers affected by frequent service disruptions.
Statutes affected: House Introduced Bill: 460.1, 460.11