Substitute Bill No. 6724 Summary

• Extends the utility shutoff moratorium for hardship customers from May 2, 2023 through October 31, 2023, preventing gas and electric companies from terminating service to customers lacking financial resources to pay entire accounts.

• Requires electric and gas companies to offer reasonable amortization agreements to delinquent customers and allow adequate time to apply for energy assistance program benefits.

• Establishes arrearage deduction program where companies reduce customer balances monthly equal to their amortization agreement payment if customers meet income eligibility and other requirements for Connecticut energy assistance programs.

• Permits hardship customers to enroll with electric suppliers provided all contracts entered on or after March 1, 2023 are at or below standard service rates.

• Authorizes the Commissioner of Social Services to share benefit recipient information with utility companies to facilitate automatic enrollment of eligible hardship customers in financial assistance programs, with plans required by August 1, 2023.