The bill amends the Public Utility Act to introduce a definition for "low-income customer," identifying them as residential customers of electric public utilities with an annual household income at or below eighty percent of the county area median income, as determined by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development. It exempts these low-income customers from rate riders associated with new interconnected customers, thereby protecting them from additional costs. The bill also outlines the qualification process for low-income customers, allowing them to self-attest their income status or provide proof of residence in low-income housing or enrollment in government assistance programs, including Medicaid, SNAP, and the Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program.

Moreover, the bill requires electric public utilities to inform their customers about the qualifications for low-income status and the documentation process by December 31, 2025, and annually thereafter. Once a customer qualifies as a low-income customer, they will not need to requalify for five years, simplifying the process and ensuring ongoing access to affordable utility services for low-income individuals. The amendments aim to enhance clarity and consistency in the regulatory framework surrounding public utilities while providing essential protections for vulnerable populations.

Statutes affected:
introduced version: 62-3-3, 62-13-13.2