Bill > A5583

This bill prohibits electric and gas public utilities from charging residential customers living in multi-unit dwellings a meter-reading fee that is greater than the cost of their actual electricity or gas usage for a billing cycle. The bill defines several key terms, including "meter-reading fee" as a charge for manual meter readings when a customer opts out of smart meter installation, and "smart meter" as a technologically advanced metering device that can record and transmit utility usage data. The legislation specifically targets situations where customers do not want to use smart meters and would otherwise be charged additional fees for manual meter reading. By limiting the meter-reading fee to no more than the cost of the utility usage itself, the bill aims to protect residents of multi-unit dwellings from what could be considered excessive charges for meter reading services. The bill would take effect immediately upon enactment.

Business and Industry, Transportation and Infrastructure

https://www.njleg.state.nj.us/bill-search/2024/A5583