This bill establishes new legal responsibilities for tenants regarding unpaid utility rates or charges when they abandon, surrender possession of, or are evicted from residential rental properties. Specifically, it states that tenants will be liable for any unpaid utility charges incurred in their name, and utility companies are prohibited from seeking payment from landlords for these charges unless the utility was contracted in the landlord's name. This effectively absolves landlords of liability for unpaid utility bills left by tenants.

Additionally, the bill mandates that utility companies must restore services to the landlord's property upon request, even if the tenant has not paid their bills. The utility company is required to pursue payment directly from the tenant for any outstanding charges. The act is set to take effect on November 1, 2026.