Bill

Bill > A2907


NJ A2907

NJ A2907
Prohibits public utilities from charging smart meter opt-out fees.


summary

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

Introduced Session

2026-2027 Regular Session

Bill Summary

This bill prohibits public utilities in this State from charging or collecting an opt-out fee to persons that have chosen not to have a smart meter installed in their places of residence. Under the bill, a "smart meter" is defined as a metering device that employs smart meter technology to measure, record, and transmit utility usage data to both a public utility and a customer for billing and other purposes. "Smart meter" includes a basic hourly interval meter, a meter with one-way communication, and a real-time meter with built-in, two-way communication capable of recording and transmitting instantaneous utility usage data. It is the sponsor's intent to help utility customers control their utility costs by exempting them from the fee charged by utilities for opting out of smart meter installation. Currently, residential customers are required to either agree to install a smart meter or pay a monthly fee to keep their analog meter. Utility customers have been experiencing larger and larger bills as companies save money by reducing employee costs. It is the sponsor's intent that that this legislation will promote choice in selecting a meter and save ratepayers money if they choose to keep an analog meter.

AI Summary

This bill prohibits public utilities from charging or collecting any fees from individuals who choose not to have a smart meter installed in their homes, with a "smart meter" being defined as any device that measures, records, and transmits utility usage data to both the utility and the customer for billing and other purposes, including basic hourly interval meters, one-way communication meters, and real-time meters with two-way communication. The intent of this legislation is to give utility customers more control over their expenses by allowing them to avoid fees associated with opting out of smart meter installations, which is particularly relevant as companies may be reducing employee costs and potentially increasing customer bills, thus promoting customer choice and potential savings for those who prefer to keep their traditional analog meters.

Committee Categories

Transportation and Infrastructure

Sponsors (2)

Last Action

Introduced, Referred to Assembly Telecommunications and Utilities Committee (on 01/13/2026)

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