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 not less than 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 physician has indicated that the length of the illness is not readily ascertainable, then the termination date shall be not less than three months from receipt by the public utility of the written certification. If the duration of the illness exceeds the specified period, the customer may request a review pursuant to rules and regulations promulgated by the commission.

The bill clarifies that while utility services cannot be terminated during this period, it does not relieve customers of their financial obligations for the services used. The act will take effect upon passage.

Statutes affected:
2013: 39-1.1-2