Bill H.88 aims to protect the health and safety of Vermonters by prohibiting electric, water, or wastewater utilities from involuntarily disconnecting residential services for nonpayment during periods of extreme heat. The Public Utility Commission is tasked with adopting a rule by June 1, 2026, that outlines the conditions under which disconnections cannot occur, specifically when the forecasted temperature is at or above 92 degrees Fahrenheit or when a heat-related alert has been issued. The rule will also establish processes for reconnection of services, repayment plans, and informing residents of their rights.

Additionally, the bill amends existing law regarding disconnections of service, explicitly stating that disconnections cannot occur during extreme heat periods. It introduces provisions that allow residents to request reconnection of services that were previously disconnected for nonpayment, provided they enter into a repayment plan that does not exceed six percent of their monthly income. The bill also includes a requirement for utilities to maintain records of reconnection requests and disconnections due to extreme heat. The act is set to take effect on July 1, 2025.

Statutes affected:
As Introduced: 24-5143