An act relating to electric ratepayer assistance and utility disconnections

S.204, the "Vermont Energy Equity Law," creates a state program to help low- and moderate-income households afford electricity bills and adds new protections against utility disconnections. It requires the Public Utility Commission to develop a draft assistance program by January 2027, with input from utilities, consumer groups, and agencies, targeting households at or below 150% of the federal poverty level. Key provisions include banning disconnections during extreme heat and requiring utilities to halt disconnections if a doctor certifies a health risk from service loss. The program must include automatic enrollment via existing state assistance programs (like Medicaid or food stamps) and fund the initiative equitably across all customers.