Bill > A3283

This bill expands an existing law to broaden the scope of public utility assistance programs in New Jersey. The bill modifies previous legislation to replace references to "energy" assistance with "public utility" assistance, explicitly including electric, gas, and water utilities. It directs the Board of Public Utilities to designate a Statewide nonprofit public utility assistance organization to receive funding from unclaimed utility deposits and societal benefits charges. The organization must meet specific criteria, including having a network of at least 200 partner organizations across all counties, a board with at least five utility representatives, and a customer service call center providing assistance in at least 150 languages. The bill allocates $25 million in fiscal year 2025 to help households pay utility bills through grants. The designated nonprofit organization is required to submit an annual report to the Board of Public Utilities detailing the number of applicants, households assisted, average assistance amount, household income, and verification methods. This legislation aims to provide additional support for low-income or financially struggling residents who are having difficulty paying their utility bills.

Business and Industry, Transportation and Infrastructure

https://www.njleg.state.nj.us/bill-search/2024/A3283