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 who can demonstrate financial hardship, allowing them to pay overdue charges over a period equal to the duration of the state of emergency.

Furthermore, the bill stipulates that for 180 days following the end of the state of emergency, public utilities cannot disconnect services due to defaulted deferred payment agreements or arrears if the customer has experienced a change in financial circumstances due to the emergency. Utilities are also mandated to provide written notice to customers about these provisions and to make reasonable efforts to contact those affected. Importantly, the bill allows utilities to recover lost or deferred revenues after the state of emergency, while still permitting disconnections necessary for public health and safety.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 24-9-1