Bill
Bill > S394
NJ S394
NJ S394Prohibits public utilities from discontinuing residential electric, gas, water, and sewer service after expiration of coronavirus public health emergency; requires public utilities to implement deferred payment agreements for services.
summary
Introduced
01/13/2026
01/13/2026
In Committee
01/13/2026
01/13/2026
Crossed Over
Passed
Dead
Introduced Session
2026-2027 Regular Session
Bill Summary
This bill prohibits public utilities (utilities) providing electric, gas, water, and sewer utility services to residential customers from discontinuing those services following the end of the coronavirus 2019 (COVID-19) public health state of emergency. The bill prohibits a utility from discontinuing, curtailing, or abandoning service for the sole reason of residential customer service bill nonpayment for 180 days following the expiration of the COVID-19 public health state of emergency. Instead, a public utility is required to enter into a deferred payment agreement with the residential customer under terms and conditions established by the Board of Public Utilities (BPU). At a minimum, the terms and conditions established by the BPU will allow residential customers to make monthly payments to the utility over a period of at least 48 months. As long as a residential customer complies with the terms and conditions of the deferred repayment plan, a utility cannot discontinue service.
AI Summary
This bill prohibits public utilities, which are companies that provide essential services like electricity, gas, water, and sewer, from shutting off these services to residential customers for 180 days after the end of the coronavirus public health emergency. Instead of immediate disconnection for non-payment, utilities must offer deferred payment agreements, allowing customers to pay overdue bills over at least 48 months, provided the customer adheres to the agreement's terms. The Board of Public Utilities (BPU) will establish the specific conditions for these agreements. This protection also extends to "medical customers," defined as those who use electricity-powered life-sustaining equipment at home, ensuring their service is not interrupted due to non-payment for the same 180-day period following the emergency's expiration, also requiring them to enter into a deferred payment plan. The bill also clarifies the definition of a "public utility emergency" as a condition posing a danger to life, health, or property that requires immediate service interruption.
Committee Categories
Business and Industry
Sponsors (2)
Last Action
Introduced in the Senate, Referred to Senate Economic Growth Committee (on 01/13/2026)
Official Document
bill text
bill summary
Loading...
bill summary
Loading...
bill summary
| Document Type | Source Location |
|---|---|
| State Bill Page | https://www.njleg.state.nj.us/bill-search/2026/S394 |
| BillText | https://pub.njleg.gov/Bills/2026/S0500/394_I1.HTM |
Loading...