A 5494 New Jersey General Assembly · 2024-2025 Regular Session

Prohibits public utilities from imposing surcharge on certain payment transactions.

This bill prohibits New Jersey public utility companies (like electricity, gas, and water providers) from adding extra fees ("surcharges") to customers who choose one-time payment methods instead of automatic billing. Specifically, it bans these fees when customers pay via online credit/debit cards, automated phone systems, or direct bank withdrawals. The law defines "surcharge" as an extra charge to cover costs of third-party payment processing. It directly affects residential customers who prefer flexible payment options without automatic enrollment. The bill takes effect immediately upon enactment.
Bill status in committee 1 of 4 stages cleared
Introduction
Mar 2025
Committee Review
Floor Vote
Governor
Introduced Mar 24, 2025 Last action Mar 24, 2025
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Mar 24, 2025
Introduced
Introduced in the Assembly, Referred to Assembly Telecommunications and Utilities Committee
lower
2 primary · 0 co-sponsors

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