This bill amends the Code of West Virginia to enhance the process for low-income residential customers to receive discounts on their utility bills. It mandates that the Department of Human Services (DHS) notify the Public Service Commission (PSC) when a customer is eligible for reduced rates based on their participation in certain assistance programs, such as Social Security Supplemental Security Income (SSI) and food stamps. The PSC is then required to order the utility to apply the reduced rate automatically, eliminating the need for the customer to submit a separate application. The bill also stipulates that the DHS will establish procedures to inform eligible individuals about these discounts and assist them in proving their eligibility.

Additionally, the bill updates the eligibility criteria and procedural requirements for receiving special reduced rates for both gas and electric utilities, as well as for water and sewer services. It removes the previous burden of proof from the customer and places it on the DHS to ensure that eligible customers are informed and assisted. The bill also specifies that utilities must credit eligible customers with the difference between what they were billed and what they would have been charged under the special reduced rates, ensuring that these credits are reflected in their billing promptly. Overall, the bill aims to streamline the process for low-income residents to access utility discounts, thereby providing financial relief to those in need.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 24-2A-1, 24-2A-5