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Bill

S 5181

Relates to customers with documented need for essential electricity for medical needs

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Leroy Comrie and 1 co-sponsor

Bill S 5181 protects customers with medical needs by ensuring uninterrupted electricity service, requiring documentation, and holding utility companies accountable for compliance.

REFERRED TO ENERGY AND TELECOMMUNICATIONS
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Bill Summary · S 5181

Summary of Bill S 5181

Bill Overview

  • Bill Number: S 5181
  • Title: Relates to customers with documented need for essential electricity for medical needs
  • Status: Referred to Energy and Telecommunications
  • Introduced On: February 19, 2025
  • Classification: Bill

Purpose and Intent

Bill S 5181 aims to ensure that customers who have documented medical needs for essential electricity are protected from service interruptions. The legislation recognizes the critical role that electricity plays in supporting medical equipment and health-related devices for individuals with specific health conditions.

Key Provisions

The bill includes several important provisions designed to safeguard the electricity supply for medically dependent customers:

  1. Documentation Requirement:

    • Customers must provide documented proof of their medical needs to qualify for protections under this bill.

  2. Service Continuity:

    • Utility companies are required to maintain uninterrupted electricity service for customers who meet the criteria, particularly during emergencies or adverse weather conditions.

  3. Notification Procedures:

    • Utility companies must establish clear notification procedures to inform eligible customers about their rights and the protections available to them.

  4. Penalties for Non-Compliance:

    • The bill outlines penalties for utility companies that fail to comply with the service continuity requirements, ensuring accountability.

Affected Parties

  • Primary Beneficiaries:

    • Individuals with documented medical conditions that require essential electricity, such as those relying on life-support systems, oxygen concentrators, or other critical medical devices.

  • Utility Companies:

    • Electric service providers will need to adapt their policies and procedures to comply with the new requirements set forth in the bill.

Procedural Aspects

  • The bill was introduced on February 19, 2025, and has been referred to the Energy and Telecommunications Committee for further consideration.
  • The legislative process will involve discussions, potential amendments, and voting within the committee before it can advance to the broader legislative body.

Related Legislation

Bill S 5181 is part of a broader legislative effort to address the needs of vulnerable populations. It is related to several prior-session bills, including:
- S 9091
- A 11056
- S 4178
- S 1630
- A 3743 (companion bill)

These related bills may provide additional context or complementary measures aimed at supporting customers with essential electricity needs.

Conclusion

Bill S 5181 represents a significant step towards ensuring that individuals with critical medical needs have reliable access to electricity. By establishing clear protections and responsibilities for utility companies, the bill seeks to enhance the safety and well-being of vulnerable populations who depend on electrical power for their health.

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

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