WeVote
Log In

Bill

Bill

HB 641

Public utilities; require electric supplier to hold the proposed discontinuation of electrical service to a residential customer who suffers from a serious illness in abeyance for a certain period of time

2025-2026 Regular Session Introduced by Kasey Carpenter and 5 co-sponsors

House Bill 641 protects seriously ill residential customers by preventing electric service discontinuation during health crises, ensuring their safety and well-being.

House Second Readers
0
WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · HB 641

Summary of House Bill 641

Bill Number: HB 641
Title: Public utilities; require electric supplier to hold the proposed discontinuation of electrical service to a residential customer who suffers from a serious illness in abeyance for a certain period of time
Status: House Second Readers
Introduced: February 26, 2025
Classification: Bill

Purpose and Intent

House Bill 641 aims to protect residential consumers suffering from serious illnesses by preventing electric suppliers from discontinuing their service during critical health periods. The bill recognizes that the discontinuation of electric service can exacerbate health issues and seeks to provide a safeguard for affected individuals.

Key Provisions

The bill amends Chapter 3 of Title 46 of the Official Code of Georgia Annotated, specifically addressing the discontinuation of electric service. The main provisions include:

  1. Notification Requirement:

    • Residential consumers can notify their electric supplier in writing if they suffer from a serious illness that would be aggravated by the loss of electric service.
    • If the notice is given orally, a written notice must follow within ten days.

  2. Medical Documentation:

    • Consumers must provide a written statement from a qualified medical professional (physician, county board of health, hospital, or medical clinic) that:
      • Identifies the serious illness.
      • Estimates the duration of the illness.
      • Certifies that discontinuation of electric service would worsen the condition.

  3. Abeyance of Service Discontinuation:

    • Electric suppliers are prohibited from discontinuing service for nonpayment if the consumer has complied with the notification and documentation requirements.
    • The proposed discontinuation must be held in abeyance for either:
      • The estimated duration of the serious illness, or
      • One month, whichever is shorter.
    • Consumers may renew this abeyance period once by repeating the notification and documentation process.

Impact

  • Affected Parties:

    • This bill primarily affects residential consumers with serious illnesses who rely on electric service for medical equipment or other health-related needs.
    • Electric suppliers will need to adjust their policies and procedures to comply with the new requirements.

  • Health and Safety:

    • By ensuring that electric service is maintained during critical health periods, the bill aims to enhance the well-being and safety of vulnerable populations.

Procedural Aspects

  • The bill was introduced on February 26, 2025, and has progressed to the House Second Readers stage as of February 28, 2025.
  • Further legislative actions will determine the bill's path toward potential enactment.

Conclusion

House Bill 641 seeks to provide essential protections for residential consumers facing serious health challenges by preventing the discontinuation of electric service during vulnerable times. By establishing clear notification and documentation requirements, the bill aims to balance the needs of consumers with the operational realities of electric suppliers.

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

Sign in to ask a question.