Bill > SB0226

This bill expands the existing legal framework for utility customer assistance programs to include energy utilities (electric, gas, or both) in addition to water and wastewater utilities. The bill defines "energy utility" broadly to include public utilities, municipally owned utilities, cooperatively owned utilities, and not-for-profit utilities that provide electric or gas services. It allows energy utilities, like water and wastewater utilities, to request the commission's approval for a customer assistance program in a general rate case. Such programs can use state or federal infrastructure funds and provide financial relief to residential customers who qualify for income-related assistance. The bill specifies that these customer assistance programs would not be considered discriminatory, and the commission must determine that the program furthers the interests of utility services and is in the public interest. The commission is required to adopt rules to implement these provisions, and the bill includes an emergency declaration, meaning it would take effect immediately upon passage.

Transportation and Infrastructure

https://iga.in.gov/legislative/2025/bills/senate/226/details