The bill amends Section 39-1.1-2 of the General Laws concerning the termination of utility services for individuals who are disabled, seriously ill, or in arrears. It extends the forbearance of utility terminations for customers with serious illness certifications and establishes that the termination date shall be the last day of the period specified by the physician as the duration of the illness. If the physician has failed to specify the length of the illness, or if the length is not readily ascertainable, the termination date shall be not less than three months from receipt by the public utility of the written certification.

The bill clarifies that while public utilities must honor a physician's certification, they can seek a review of its validity. If a certification is rejected, the utility must inform the customer in writing of the reasons for rejection and their right to appeal. Importantly, the bill emphasizes that nontermination does not relieve customers of their financial obligations for utility services. This act will take effect upon passage.

Statutes affected:
86: 39-1.1-2