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SB 436

Counties, Municipal Corporations; local governments and political subdivisions from entering into nondisclosure agreements regarding electricity usage or water usage of any entity; prohibit

2025-2026 Regular Session Introduced by Jaha Howard and 7 co-sponsors

Georgia bill bans local government nondisclosure agreements on electricity and water usage data, mandating public disclosure of utility consumption information.

Senate Read and Referred
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Bill Summary · SB 436

Legislative bill overview

SB 436 prohibits Georgia counties, municipalities, and other local government entities from entering into nondisclosure agreements (NDAs) that would keep confidential information about the electricity or water usage of any entity. The bill essentially mandates transparency regarding utility consumption data at the local government level.

Why is this important

Utility usage data can reveal operational details about businesses, facilities, and individuals that some consider sensitive or proprietary. This bill forces public disclosure of such information, which could affect business competitiveness, privacy, and negotiating power. Conversely, transparency advocates argue that public entities should not be able to hide information about how resources are used, potentially affecting public oversight of government contracts and operations.

Potential points of contention

  • Business confidentiality vs. public transparency: Companies may oppose disclosure of their utility usage data as commercially sensitive information that reveals operational patterns, production levels, or facility locations to competitors
  • Privacy concerns: Utility usage data for residential or small business customers could reveal personal or financial information, raising questions about individual privacy protections
  • Government negotiating power: Preventing NDAs may weaken local governments' ability to negotiate favorable rates or terms with utility providers or large customers by removing confidentiality protections

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

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