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, including a process for residents to reconnect services and enter into reasonable repayment plans. The bill defines a "period of extreme heat" as when the forecasted temperature is at or above 92 degrees Fahrenheit or when a heat-related alert is issued by the National Weather Service.

Additionally, the bill amends existing law regarding disconnections of service, explicitly stating that disconnections cannot occur during extreme heat periods. It also includes provisions for tenants in rental dwellings to request continued service and outlines the rights of residents to reconnect 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 act is set to take effect on July 1, 2025.

Statutes affected:
As Introduced: 24-5143