The bill seeks to enhance protections for residential utility customers during extreme heat conditions by prohibiting involuntary disconnections of electric and water services due to non-payment on days when the National Weather Service issues heat-related alerts. It establishes provisions that allow customers to request reconnection of services during these alerts, with utilities required to inform them of this right in disconnection notices. Additionally, any repayment plans for past due bills must not exceed six percent of the customer's monthly income, ensuring affordability for low-income households. The bill also mandates that utilities with over 25,000 retail customers report disconnection data to the Department of Commerce annually.

Furthermore, the legislation extends protections to tenants by requiring landlords to inform them of their rights to request reconnection of utility services after disconnection during heat alerts. Landlords must provide clear instructions for making such requests and must attempt to reconnect services promptly. The bill also includes provisions for landlords to notify tenants about fire safety measures and health hazards related to indoor mold, while protecting tenants from retaliatory actions for exercising their rights. Overall, the bill aims to safeguard public health and safety by maintaining utility services during extreme weather events and ensuring clear communication between utilities, landlords, and customers.

Statutes affected:
Original Bill: 54.16.285, 57.08.081, 80.28.010, 87.03.015, 59.18.060, 59.20.070
Substitute Bill: 54.16.285, 57.08.081, 80.28.010, 87.03.015, 59.18.060, 59.20.070