This bill mandates that within one year of its effective date, various State agencies, including the Department of Community Affairs, Department of Human Services, and the Board of Public Utilities, must review and increase the income thresholds for residential customers to qualify for utility bill payment assistance and energy efficiency programs. The agencies are permitted to solicit public comments and collaborate with other agencies to determine the appropriate adjustments to these income thresholds.

The legislation aims to enhance access to essential utility assistance programs for low-income residents by ensuring that the income eligibility criteria are updated and reflective of current economic conditions. The act will take effect immediately and will remain in force until the final income threshold increase is implemented by the relevant State agencies.