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SB 321

AN ACT TO AMEND TITLE 26 OF THE DELAWARE CODE RELATED TO UTILITY BILLING.

153rd General Assembly (2025-2026) Introduced by Bill Carson and 8 co-sponsors

SB 321 updates Delaware utility billing rules to clarify protections, billing formats, dispute processes, and timelines for customers and providers.

Passed By House. Votes: 39 YES 2 ABSENT
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WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · SB 321

Summary of SB 321 (Session 153, Delaware)

Purpose and intent

  • SB 321 proposes amendments to Title 26 of the Delaware Code related to utility billing. The bill is designed to modify how utilities bill, charge, and interact with customers, with the aim of clarifying requirements, protections, and processes in utility billing. The specific policy objectives (beyond general intent) would be clarified by the statutory text, but the bill is framed as an update to statutory provisions governing utility billing practices.

Key provisions and changes (as described by the bill’s scope)

  • Amendments to Title 26 (the Delaware code portion governing public utilities and related matters) focusing on the mechanics and rules around utility billing.
  • Potential areas often addressed in such amendments (typical examples, pending the exact text) may include:
    • Customer protections related to billing accuracy, error correction, and disputed charges.
    • Requirements for standardization or transparency in billing formats.
    • Timelines for billing cycles, due dates, and late-payment penalties.
    • Procedures for billing disputes, adjustments, and customer notices.
    • Provisions affecting shutoffs, reconnections, or payment arrangements in cases of nonpayment.
    • Clarifications on the responsibilities of utility providers and any switching or metering requirements.
  • The bill may introduce or refine administrative processes for ensuring compliance by utilities and for enforcement or dispute resolution.

Note: The precise substantive provisions (specific sections, definitions, dollar amounts, penalties, or dates) would be found directly in the bill’s text. The summary above outlines typical areas these types of amendments cover and what readers can expect to find once the bill is analyzed in detail.

Who would be affected

  • Utility providers regulated under Title 26 (including electric, gas, water, telecommunications, and other regulated services as defined by Delaware law).
  • Residential and non-residential utility customers receiving bills from those providers.
  • State regulatory agencies and commissions responsible for overseeing utility billing practices and enforcing compliance.
  • Entities involved in billing disputes, customer service operations, and collections.

Procedural and timeline aspects

  • Introduced on May 15, 2026, and assigned to the Environment, Energy & Transportation Committee in the Senate.
  • As a bill introduced in a standing committee, it will undergo committee review, potential amendments, and votes before moving to the full Senate and then the House (per Delaware’s legislative process).
  • Any key dates (public hearings, committee deadlines, or enactment timelines) would be established in the committee agenda and the final passage language if the bill advances.

Practical implications to watch

  • If enacted, utilities may need to adjust billing systems, customer communications, and dispute handling procedures to comply with new requirements.
  • Customers could see changes in how disputes are resolved, how charges are presented, or how and when they may be billed or shut off for nonpayment.
  • The balance between provider operational flexibility and consumer protections may be recalibrated depending on the final text.

Next steps for readers

  • Review the full text of SB 321 to understand the exact definitions, sections, and requirements.
  • Monitor committee hearings and votes in the Environment, Energy & Transportation Committee for amendments and implications.
  • Consider consulting the Delaware Department of Justice or Public Service Commission (or equivalent regulatory body) for guidance on enforcement and compliance once enacted.

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

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