Bill > PR26-0583

This resolution, titled the "Rate Plan Vacatur Interim Protections Emergency Declaration Resolution of 2026," declares an emergency situation in the District of Columbia due to a significant electricity rate hike in January 2026 that led to numerous shutoff notices and drastically increased utility bills for residents. The emergency is further necessitated by a court decision on March 5, 2026, which overturned (vacated and remanded) previous orders from the Public Service Commission (PSC) that had approved a multi-year rate plan and a substantial rate increase from Potomac Electric Power Company (Pepco). The resolution argues that until the PSC acts to restore electricity rates to their previous, legally standing levels from December 2024, District residents should be protected from having their electricity service disconnected, as many are already at high risk of such disconnections due to the current situation and the PSC's inaction, thereby preventing unnecessary harm while longer-term solutions for electricity affordability are considered.