FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
April 23, 2025
MONTGOMERY, AL — A new bill introduced in the Alabama Legislature aims to protect vulnerable residents from life-threatening utility disconnections, especially during extreme weather or financial hardship. The legislation, backed by clean energy and consumer rights advocates, outlines specific protections for utility customers and introduces stronger accountability measures for utility companies.
The bill, if passed, would restrict utility shut-offs under the following conditions:
- During extreme heat or cold
- When a state of emergency has been declared
- In households with children under 12 or elderly adults
- If a resident has a medical condition that makes disconnection dangerous
- For active-duty military members or veterans
- If the outstanding balance is under $100
- In rental properties where landlords have failed to pay the utility bill
The proposed legislation would also require utilities to provide:
- At least 10 days’ advance notice before disconnection
- Multiple communication attempts to reach customers
- A waiver of reconnection fees in the case of wrongful disconnection
- Transparent disconnection policies and accessible payment options
If utilities violate these requirements, customers would have the right to pursue civil damages, attorney fees, and emergency legal relief.
“Far too often, Alabama families are left in the dark — sometimes literally — without protections or pathways for appeal,” said Daniel Tait, Executive Director at Energy Alabama. “This bill restores dignity and safety by making sure no one is disconnected unjustly, especially when their health or safety is on the line.”
Energy Alabama is urging state leaders and utilities to pass and implement this bill that prioritizes safety, equity, and the basic human right to reliable utility service.
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About Energy Alabama
Energy Alabama is a 501(c)(3), member-supported, non-profit organization dedicated to advancing Alabama’s clean energy future. Through education and advocacy, we empower Alabamians of all ages to embrace clean energy solutions. We champion policies that promote sustainable energy adoption, cultivate a skilled workforce ready to deploy these technologies, and believe in a future where clean energy is accessible to all.
