Bill > HB4974

This bill amends Michigan's utility regulation law by establishing new requirements for electric utilities during service interruptions (power outages). Specifically, the bill mandates that utilities provide financial reimbursements to individuals and local governments affected by power outages. For tenants whose utilities are paid by their landlord, the utility must pay $50 if the outage lasts between 4-24 hours, or $200 if the outage exceeds 24 hours, with the option to reimburse the larger amount between that fixed sum or actual incurred costs like spoiled food or lodging expenses. Local governments can also be reimbursed for outage-related costs, including emergency service dispatches, operating warming/cooling centers, backup power generation, and other mitigation efforts. To receive reimbursement, individuals and local governments must submit a detailed account of costs to the public service commission within 90 days of the interruption. The commission will review these claims and determine the reimbursement amount, which the utility must pay within 30 days of the commission's determination. The bill defines "emergency services" as police, fire, ambulance, or first responder services, and "service interruption" as a full or partial loss of electric service. These provisions are intended to provide financial protection and accountability for consumers and local governments during power outages.

Agriculture and Natural Resources

https://legislature.mi.gov/Bills/Bill?ObjectName=2025-HB-4974