CSHB 114 Summary

• Authorizes electric and telephone cooperatives to offer members an opt-out charitable giving program that rounds monthly bills up to the next whole dollar, with contributions not exceeding 99 cents per month.

• Requires cooperatives to clearly identify rounded amounts on billing statements and provide opt-out instructions available in person, by mail, phone, or internet.

• Mandates that program proceeds support only poverty relief and public welfare, explicitly prohibiting use for religious organizations, political organizations, labor unions, or political purposes.

• Allows members to claim full refunds of all amounts paid under the program for at least the three preceding years.

• Grants electric cooperatives authority to assist members in acquiring and installing weatherization and energy efficiency products and services through financing and direct provision of these items.