MI SB0255

Decriminalizes restoring water service to one's own lawfully occupied residence after shutoff due to inability to pay, reclassifying it from a felony or misdemeanor to a state civil infraction, provided no metering or backflow prevention device is damaged, bypassed, or rendered inoperable

Establishes graduated penalties for self-restoration of water service: first offense up to 25 hours community service; second offense up to $250 fine and/or 50 hours community service; third or subsequent offense up to $500 fine and/or 100 hours community service

Requires persons cited under the new civil infraction provisions to be referred to water assistance or affordability programs if eligible

Maintains existing criminal penalties for utility tampering in all other circumstances: misdemeanor if damage is $500 or less, felony (up to 5 years imprisonment and/or $5,000 fine) if damage exceeds $500

Takes effect 90 days after enactment