NJ S1617

Prohibits telecommunications, electric, gas, and cable television companies from automatically charging credit card or direct debit customers before the actual billing due date that would apply to customers paying by cash, check, or money order

Customers may opt in to earlier charges by providing express written consent or by making a request via telephone or other Board of Public Utilities-approved methods

Applies to customers enrolled in automatic payment programs where charges are billed directly to credit cards or deducted from bank accounts

Directs the New Jersey Board of Public Utilities to implement and enforce these billing restrictions through administrative rulemaking

Takes effect 90 days after enactment, with the Board authorized to begin administrative preparations immediately