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Bill > S2741


NJ S2741

NJ S2741
Requires electric public utility to reimburse customer for cost of spoiled food and prescription medicine resulting from service outage more than 48 hours after end of storm.


summary

Introduced
01/13/2026
In Committee
01/13/2026
Crossed Over
Passed
Dead

Introduced Session

2026-2027 Regular Session

Bill Summary

This bill requires an electric public utility (utility) to reimburse a utility customer for the cost of food or prescription medicine, or both, that spoils as a result of a sustained power outage. Under the bill, a customer whose food or prescription medicine spoils due to a lack of refrigeration caused by a sustained power outage would be entitled to a reimbursement for the actual cost of the spoiled food or prescription medicine. A utility customer would be required to submit to the utility an itemized list of losses, and proof of loss, as specified in the bill. No later than 90 days after the effective date of the bill, each utility in the State is required to develop and implement a system for customers of the utility to apply for a reimbursement online via the utility's Internet website. Applications for a reimbursement is to be made in a form and manner as determined by the Board of Public Utilities.

AI Summary

This bill requires electric public utilities to reimburse customers for spoiled food and prescription medicine if the spoilage is caused by a power outage lasting more than 48 hours after the end of a "major event," which is defined as an uncontrollable occurrence like a storm or natural disaster that disrupts service. To receive reimbursement, customers must provide an itemized list of lost items and proof of purchase, such as receipts or photos, and utilities must establish an online system for customers to apply for these reimbursements within 90 days of the bill's effective date, with the process determined by the Board of Public Utilities, which is the state agency overseeing utility services.

Committee Categories

Business and Industry

Sponsors (1)

Last Action

Introduced in the Senate, Referred to Senate Economic Growth Committee (on 01/13/2026)

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