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Bill

SB 246

Prohibit terminating electric, gas service to certain households

136th Legislature (2025-2026) Introduced by Hearcel Craig and 1 co-sponsor

Ohio bill prevents electric and gas utility disconnections for vulnerable households, protecting essential services from termination for specified populations.

Referred to committee
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Bill Summary · SB 246

Legislative bill overview

SB 246 would prevent utility companies from disconnecting electric and gas service to certain households in Ohio, establishing protections against service termination for specified vulnerable populations or circumstances. The bill restricts when and under what conditions utilities can shut off essential services to eligible customers.

Why this is important

Utility disconnections can create serious health and safety risks, particularly during extreme weather, for families with children, elderly residents, or those with medical needs. This legislation addresses a practical problem: low-income households and vulnerable populations sometimes face service cuts that can lead to dangerous living conditions, while also potentially reducing the administrative and collection costs utilities incur from disconnection and reconnection cycles.

Potential points of contention

  • Cost implications: Utilities may argue that service protections increase their bad debt and operational costs, which could be passed to other ratepayers through higher bills
  • Definition of "certain households": The bill's protections likely depend on eligibility criteria—disputes may arise over who qualifies (income thresholds, household composition, medical conditions) and whether protections are temporary or permanent
  • Payment obligations: Unclear whether protected households must still pay bills or make partial payments, and how long protections last if customers fall behind

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

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