DOVER, Del.- A bill aimed at safeguarding people from utility shutoffs during extreme weather passed the Delaware House of Representatives on April 8, moving one step closer to becoming law.
The bill, sponsored by Rep. Melanie Ross Levin, Rep. Rae Moore, Rep. Debra Heffernan, and Sen. Stephanie Hansen, updates Delaware's utility shutoff laws, which hadn’t been changed in 20 years. The legislation comes in response to rising concern over high energy bills during recent winter months.
“We know that losing access to utilities, especially during periods of extreme weather, can pose serious health and safety risks,” Rep. Ross Levin said.
Key protections in the bill include:
- Timing restrictions: Utility companies would be prohibited from shutting off heating or cooling services after business hours or on weekends
- Weather-based protections: Companies would not be allowed to disconnect services when the temperature is at or below 35 degrees or at or above 95 degrees
- Advance notice: Utilities would be required to issue a 14-day written warning before a shutoff
- More contact attempts: Before a shutoff, utilities must attempt to contact customers at least twice, including one attempt after 5 p.m.
- Final warning: A direct, final attempt to reach the customer must be made before services are disconnected
- Support information: The 14-day warning notice must include details about payment plans and available financial aid
The bill will now head to the Delaware Senate for consideration. It will expand protections for people struggling to pay their energy bills and help ensure homes remain safe during extreme heat or cold.