WeVote
Log In

Bill

Bill

A 3978

Allows customers to decline the installation of smart meters

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Marianne Buttenschon and 2 co-sponsors

Bill A 3978 empowers consumers to refuse smart meter installations, ensuring no penalties from utilities, and addresses privacy concerns in energy consumption.

REFERRED TO ENERGY
0
WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · A 3978

Summary of Bill A 3978: Allows Customers to Decline the Installation of Smart Meters

Bill Overview

  • Bill Number: A 3978
  • Title: Allows customers to decline the installation of smart meters
  • Status: Referred to Energy Committee
  • Introduced On: January 30, 2025
  • Classification: Legislative Bill

Purpose and Intent

The primary purpose of Bill A 3978 is to provide consumers with the option to refuse the installation of smart meters in their homes or businesses. Smart meters are advanced devices that measure energy consumption in real-time and transmit data to utility companies. This bill aims to address concerns regarding privacy, data security, and consumer choice related to smart meter technology.

Key Provisions

  • Consumer Choice: The bill explicitly allows customers to opt-out of having smart meters installed. This provision ensures that individuals who have reservations about smart meters can maintain traditional metering systems.
  • Utility Compliance: Utilities will be required to respect the opt-out requests of customers, ensuring that no penalties or fees are imposed on those who choose not to install smart meters.
  • Information Disclosure: Utilities may be required to provide clear information about the implications of opting out, including any potential impacts on billing or service.

Affected Parties

  • Consumers: Homeowners and business owners who prefer not to have smart meters installed will benefit from this legislation, as it grants them the right to decline such installations.
  • Utility Companies: Electric and gas utility providers will need to adjust their policies and practices to accommodate customers who opt out of smart meter installations.
  • Regulatory Bodies: The bill may require oversight from regulatory agencies to ensure compliance and address any disputes between consumers and utility companies.

Procedural Aspects

  • Current Status: As of January 30, 2025, the bill has been referred to the Energy Committee for further consideration.
  • Related Legislation: Bill A 3978 has a companion bill, S 8515, which may address similar issues in the Senate, indicating a potential for broader legislative support.

Conclusion

Bill A 3978 represents a significant step towards enhancing consumer rights regarding energy metering technologies. By allowing customers to decline smart meter installations, the bill seeks to empower individuals and address concerns related to privacy and data security in the energy sector. As the bill progresses through the legislative process, its implications for consumers and utility companies will be closely monitored.

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

Sign in to ask a question.