WeVote
Log In

Bill

Bill

A 1959

Prohibits telecommunications, utility or cable television companies from charging certain customers prior to actual billing due date.

2026-2027 Regular Session Introduced by Linda Carter and 6 co-sponsors

Bill A 1959 bars telecom, utility, and cable companies from billing New Jersey customers before their legally established payment due date.

Received in the Senate, Referred to Senate Economic Growth Committee
0
WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · A 1959

Legislative bill overview

Bill A 1959 prohibits telecommunications, utility, and cable television companies from charging customers before their actual billing due date. The bill was introduced in the New Jersey Assembly and recently advanced out of committee with amendments on February 12, 2026.

Why is this important

This addresses a consumer protection issue where some customers may be charged before the date they're legally obligated to pay, potentially straining household budgets and creating cash flow problems. The practice could disproportionately affect lower-income households with limited financial flexibility.

Potential points of contention

  • Industry compliance costs: Companies may argue that early billing and automated payment systems would require expensive technological modifications, potentially leading to rate increases passed to consumers.
  • Definition ambiguity: The bill's amendments may create disputes over what constitutes the "actual billing due date" versus service dates, billing cycles, and grace periods across different company practices.
  • Unintended consequences: Restrictions on billing timing could complicate utility shutoff procedures for non-payment or create administrative delays in addressing service issues.

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

Sign in to ask a question.