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Bill

A 5513

Directs BPU to establish public information campaign concerning public utility meter inspection and calibration.

2024-2025 Regular Session Introduced by Dan Hutchison and 2 co-sponsors

New Jersey would mandate a BPU public awareness campaign on utility meter inspection and calibration procedures to educate consumers about accuracy verification.

Introduced in the Assembly, Referred to Assembly Telecommunications and Utilities Committee
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Bill Summary · A 5513

Legislative bill overview

Bill A 5513 directs New Jersey's Board of Public Utilities (BPU) to create and implement a public information campaign educating consumers about utility meter inspection and calibration procedures. The campaign would inform residents about how meters work, their accuracy standards, and the inspection/calibration process available to them.

Why is this important

Utility meters directly affect the bills New Jersey residents pay for electricity, gas, and water. Many consumers lack understanding of meter accuracy standards, inspection rights, or how to verify their meters are functioning correctly. A public education campaign could reduce consumer complaints, build confidence in utility accuracy, and empower residents to request inspections if they suspect billing errors.

Potential points of contention

  • Cost allocation: Who pays for the campaign (ratepayers through utility bills, state general fund, or BPU operating budget) and whether this represents efficient use of resources
  • Effectiveness questions: Uncertainty about whether an information campaign alone addresses root concerns about meter accuracy or if it merely shifts responsibility to consumers to seek inspections
  • Utility industry perspective: Utilities may view this as implying their meters are unreliable or that consumer complaints about accuracy are widespread enough to warrant a major campaign

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

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