The bill amends the 1939 Public Act 3 to enhance protections for senior citizens and eligible customers regarding utility services, particularly during the heating season. It mandates that utility providers identify senior citizen customers through various methods, including customer interviews and bill inserts that inform them about critical care programs and affordability options. Starting November 1, 2025, providers are required to automatically enroll senior citizens in winter protection programs and cannot disenroll them unless specific conditions are met. Additionally, the bill introduces a new section that requires providers to identify eligible customers with children under 16 and enroll them in similar winter protection programs.

Key provisions include the requirement for utility providers to issue annual reports on the number of enrolled senior citizens and eligible customers in these programs. The bill also outlines the conditions under which utilities may not shut off service during the heating season for nonpayment, particularly for eligible senior citizens and low-income customers. It emphasizes the need for clear communication from utilities regarding shutoff procedures and customer rights, ensuring that vulnerable populations are adequately informed and protected from service interruptions during critical times.

Statutes affected:
House Introduced Bill: 460.9, 460.10