This bill prohibits public utilities from imposing a surcharge on customers who choose not to enroll in automatic payment plans and instead opt for alternative payment methods. These alternative methods include one-time payments made through online credit or debit card transactions, automated telephone systems, or direct bank account withdrawals. The bill defines a surcharge as an additional fee charged by a public utility during a payment transaction to cover the costs associated with third-party payment processing services.

The legislation aims to protect customers from additional fees when they select payment options other than automatic payments. By ensuring that public utilities cannot impose surcharges on these alternative payment methods, the bill seeks to promote fair billing practices and enhance consumer rights in the utility sector. The act is set to take effect immediately upon passage.