The bill amends the existing law governing public utilities in Michigan by adding a new section, 9f, which outlines the responsibilities of electric utilities during service interruptions. Under this new provision, utilities are required to reimburse individuals whose utilities are paid for by their landlords for service interruptions lasting more than 24 hours, with compensation set at $50 or the cost of spoiled food, lodging, or other incurred costs, whichever is greater. For interruptions exceeding 48 hours, the reimbursement increases to $200 or the cost of incurred expenses. Additionally, utilities must reimburse local governments for costs associated with emergency services, warming or cooling centers, backup generation, and other related expenses incurred during the service interruption.

To seek reimbursement, individuals or local governments must submit their actual costs to the commission within 90 days of the service interruption. The commission will review these accounts and determine the reimbursement amount, which the utility must pay within 30 days of the commission's decision. This new section is intended to provide additional remedies for those affected by service interruptions, ensuring that both individuals and local governments are compensated for their losses.

Statutes affected:
House Introduced Bill: 460.1, 460.11