Bill > SB677

This bill amends Pennsylvania's public utility law to require municipalities selling a water or wastewater system to a private investor-owned utility to conduct a binding ratepayer referendum before finalizing the sale. Specifically, the municipality must hold a public hearing explaining the details of the proposed sale and then mail a referendum ballot to each ratepayer, providing information about the sale price, the acquiring utility, and ratemaking guidelines. The municipality must also publish notice of the proposed sale on its website, in newspapers, and through public mailers. Critically, the sale cannot be completed unless a majority of ratepayers approve the acquisition within a 60-day period. This new provision aims to give utility customers more direct input and transparency into the sale of their local water or wastewater systems, ensuring they have a voice in significant changes to their essential utility services. The bill will take effect 60 days after its enactment.

Labor and Employment

https://www.legis.state.pa.us/cfdocs/billinfo/bill_history.cfm?syear=2025&sind=0&body=S&type=B&bn=677