The bill H.753, titled the Vermont Energy Equity Law, aims to enhance protections for ratepayers regarding utility service disconnections. It mandates the Commissioner of Public Service to conduct an annual assessment of involuntary residential service disconnections, utilizing data from monthly disconnection reports, consumer assistance records, and other relevant information. The Commissioner is required to report findings and recommendations to the House Committee on Energy and Digital Infrastructure and the Senate Committee on Finance by January 15, 2027, and annually thereafter. This report may be included in the Department's Annual Energy Report or submitted separately at the Commissioner's discretion.

Additionally, the bill requires the Public Utility Commission to adopt new rules by January 1, 2028, or upon the initiation of related rulemaking. These rules will focus on curtailing electric utility service disconnections during extreme heat, allowing licensed physician assistants or nurse practitioners to issue physician certificates, and ensuring that medical judgments regarding health hazards are considered when determining disconnection protection periods. The act is set to take effect on July 1, 2026.

Statutes affected:
As Introduced: 30-209(b), 30-209, 30-218d(a), 30-218d
As Passed By the House -- Official: 30-209(b), 30-209, 30-218d(a), 30-218d