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AB 785

Relating to: a percentage of income payment program for electricity and gas service, electricity and gas service disconnections, granting rule-making authority, and making an appropriation. (FE)

2025-2026 Regular Session Introduced by Clint Anderson and 20 co-sponsors

Wisconsin bill creates income-based utility payment program for low-income households to reduce disconnections and stabilize electricity/gas access through modified payment structures.

Representative Sinicki added as a coauthor
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Bill Summary · AB 785

Legislative bill overview

AB 785 establishes a percentage of income payment program (PIPP) for residential electricity and gas customers in Wisconsin, allowing low-income households to pay a percentage of their income toward utilities rather than standard rates. The bill also modifies disconnection procedures and grants the Public Service Commission rule-making authority to implement the program, with an accompanying appropriation for program administration.

Why is this important

Utility disconnections represent a significant hardship for low-income households, affecting basic needs like heating, cooling, and food preservation. A PIPP can reduce disconnections, improve bill payment rates, and stabilize utility access while potentially reducing administrative costs associated with disconnection and reconnection cycles. The program structure and funding level will determine whether it meaningfully addresses energy affordability or provides only marginal relief.

Potential points of contention

  • Program cost and funding: The fiscal estimate and appropriation amount will determine whether utilities or ratepayers bear implementation costs and whether the program scales adequately to serve eligible populations
  • Eligibility thresholds: Defining who qualifies as "low-income" and whether the income percentage is set at affordable levels (federal PIPP models typically cap payments at 5-6% of income, but implementation varies)
  • Impact on utility revenues: Utilities may resist if the program significantly reduces revenue collection without sufficient cost recovery mechanisms, potentially affecting service quality investments
  • Disconnection standards: Changes to disconnection procedures could create disputes over what constitutes legitimate non-payment versus inability to pay under PIPP terms

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

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