This bill aims to amend the Code of West Virginia by introducing a new article that prohibits public utilities from terminating or disconnecting services to residential customers during a state disaster emergency declared by executive order. It establishes a duty for public utilities to restore service within 48 hours if it has been terminated during the emergency. Additionally, the bill requires public utilities to enter into deferred payment agreements with residential customers, allowing them to pay overdue charges over a period equal to the duration of the state of emergency. The bill also mandates that public utilities provide notice to customers about these provisions and make reasonable efforts to contact those who have experienced financial hardship due to the emergency.

Furthermore, the bill stipulates that for 180 days following the end of the state of emergency, public utilities cannot disconnect services for defaulted deferred payment agreements or arrears if the customer has faced a change in financial circumstances due to the emergency. It clarifies that while public utilities can recover lost or deferred revenues after the emergency, they are still permitted to disconnect services if necessary to protect health and safety. Overall, the bill seeks to provide financial relief and protection for residential customers during and after a state of emergency.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 24-9-1