This bill enables county and municipal sewerage authorities, as well as local units operating water supply facilities, to offer reduced rates for water, sewer, and stormwater services to low-income residents. The eligibility for these reductions is based on household income being at or below a specified percentage of federal poverty guidelines, and applicants must be residents who do not receive other fee reductions. Authorities are required to adopt procedures for determining eligibility and must inform residents about these reductions. Additionally, the bill allows authorities to seek approval from the Director of the Division of Local Government Services to fund these reductions from their enterprise funds, ensuring that financial stability is maintained.

The legislation also amends existing laws to enhance the management of water supply and sewerage service rates, mandating uniformity and equity in charges while prohibiting standby fees for residential customers with smaller service lines. It introduces provisions for stormwater utilities to charge fees based on stormwater runoff contributions and allows for fee reductions for properties implementing effective stormwater management practices. Furthermore, the bill provides for installment payment agreements for delinquent charges, with flexibility for modifications based on financial hardship. Overall, the bill aims to improve affordability for low-income residents while ensuring the sustainability and integrity of local water and sewer services.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 40:14A-4.2, 40:14A-8, 40:14B-21, 40A:26B-8, 40A:4-35.2, 40A:5A-10.1, 40:62-83.2, 40:14A-21, 40:14B-42