WeVote
Log In

Bill

Bill

HB 7612

AN ACT RELATING TO PUBLIC UTILITIES AND CARRIERS -- TERMINATION OF SERVICE TO PERSONS WHO ARE DISABLED, SERIOUSLY ILL, OR IN ARREARS OF PAYMENT

2026 Regular Session Introduced by Cherie Cruz and 9 co-sponsors

Rhode Island bill restricts utility disconnections for disabled, seriously ill, or financially struggling customers to protect vulnerable populations from service loss.

04/07/2026 Committee recommended measure be held for further study
0
WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · HB 7612

Legislative bill overview

HB 7612 would restrict utility companies' ability to terminate service to customers who are disabled, seriously ill, or behind on payments. The bill establishes protections requiring utilities to consider a person's medical condition and financial hardship before disconnecting essential services like electricity, gas, or water.

Why is this important

Utility disconnections can have serious health consequences for vulnerable populations, particularly elderly individuals, people with chronic conditions requiring medical equipment, and low-income households. This bill addresses a real public health issue where people risk death or serious illness when essential services are cut off during medical crises or financial emergencies.

Potential points of contention

  • Utility company burden: Companies may argue that broad protections reduce their ability to collect debts and recover costs, potentially leading to higher rates for other customers who pay on time
  • Definition challenges: Terms like "seriously ill" and "disabled" require clear legal definitions; ambiguous language could create enforcement disputes or inconsistent application across different utilities
  • Scope and exceptions: The bill's specifics on payment plans, duration of protection, and which utilities are covered remain unclear and will likely generate debate over whether protections are too broad or too narrow

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

Sign in to ask a question.