Requires utilities accept public assistance payments

This bill requires gas and electric utilities to accept and credit public assistance payments directly for residential customers. It specifically mandates that utilities treat payments from programs like the Home Energy Assistance Program (HEAP) and emergency funding as full payment, regardless of a customer's account status. Utilities must use these payments to restore service or stop collections activity. The law directly affects low-income residential utility customers who receive public assistance and the utilities serving them. It takes effect immediately upon enactment.