This bill amends existing legislation regarding the installation of smart meters for utility services in South Dakota. It introduces a requirement that utilities must obtain written consent from customers before installing a smart meter. Additionally, utilities are mandated to provide customers with information about the smart meter's data collection, management, and storage practices, including the type of data collected and whether it will be sold to third parties. The bill also defines a "smart meter" and outlines various terms related to utility services.

Furthermore, the bill allows customers to request the removal of a smart meter in writing, with utilities required to notify the customer of the removal date and complete the removal within thirty days. Utilities may charge a fee for the removal of a smart meter, capped at eighty dollars, and can impose a monthly fee of up to ten dollars for customers who opt not to use a smart meter. These provisions aim to enhance customer control and transparency regarding smart meter installations and data usage.

Statutes affected:
Introduced, 02/04/2025: 49-34-18