MI SB0344

Creates a low-income water residential affordability program within the Department of Health and Human Services to reduce water and sewerage bill arrearages and ensure eligible customers' monthly bills are based on household income.

Defines eligible customers as those with household income not exceeding 200% of federal poverty guidelines or receiving state emergency relief, food assistance, medical assistance, or other public assistance programs.

Requires the Department to complete income eligibility reviews within 30 days of receiving a nonaffordability application and notify providers to halt shutoff proceedings during the review period.

Directs providers to charge eligible customers rates based on household income as determined by the Department, or authorizes the Department to provide subsidies directly to eligible customers.

Mandates providers give annual written notice and website postings about program availability, establishes a task force within 30 days to develop best practices, and requires implementation of an affordability plan by October 1, 2022.