The bill enhances consumer protection in the electric and gas supply sectors by addressing unauthorized changes in suppliers, commonly referred to as "slamming." It amends Section 36 of P.L.1999, c.23 (C.48:3-85) to require electric and gas suppliers to provide customers with a one-page information sheet summarizing the material terms and conditions of their contracts, including contract duration, pricing, and an explanation of slamming. Additionally, it mandates that energy suppliers obtain customer consent for any changes through written or electronic signatures, audio recordings of customer-initiated calls, or independent third-party verification. Suppliers must also notify customers of any changes within 30 days and include contact information for filing complaints with the Board of Public Utilities (BPU) on customer bills.

The bill further establishes new consumer protection standards, including the prohibition of discriminatory marketing practices and the creation of a database for recording customer complaints. It requires the BPU to publish quarterly reports on customer complaints while keeping complainants' identities confidential, although the names of the entities involved will be disclosed. The legislation also emphasizes the need for a multi-lingual consumer education program to inform residential and small business consumers about their rights and options in the restructured energy markets, with the BPU ensuring that educational materials are neutral and costs are recoverable from customers. Overall, the bill aims to improve transparency and accountability in the energy supply market, ultimately safeguarding consumers from unauthorized service changes.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 48:3-85, 48:3-86, 48:3-90