As you’re all aware, the clock ran out on Chapter 14 of the PUC Code. Despite our best efforts to find a middle ground, the sunset provision kicked in, and the "Responsible Utility Customer Protection Act" has officially expired.

Why this matters (The "New" Reality)
We’re back in the Pennsylvania of 2004. Without Chapter 14, the rules for utility collections have shifted significantly:

• More Power to the PUC: The Commission now has much broader discretion to set up payment agreements. The strict "one-and-done" rules for defaults are gone for now.
• Stricter Shut-off Rules: Terminating service just got a whole lot harder for companies. The notice requirements are more rigorous, and the "seasonal" protections for our most vulnerable constituents are much stronger.
• The Burden of Proof: In many cases, the burden has shifted back toward the utility to prove that a termination is justified, rather than the customer proving why it isn't.

Letting a major piece of the PUC code sunset wasn’t on anyone’s "ideal" bingo card for last session. However, this also gives us a unique opportunity to look at what worked and what didn't over the last 20 years.

That’s why I will be introducing a bill creating a new set of rules for utility billing that prioritizes reasonable and affordable payments towards a past due account, collections, cash and security deposits, reconnection fees and terminations. This bill will aim to keep Pennsylvanians connected to service while making reasonable payments toward their debt.

Bottom line: if you fall on hard times, you can’t be shut-off and you get a fair chance to get back on track.

I ask that you join me in sponsoring this critical piece of legislation.