SENATE BILL REPORT

SB 6680

BYSenators Benitz, Sutherland, Patrick, Bailey, Stratton, Lee and Sellar

Changing provisions relating to low-income home energy assistance and creating a joint select committee on low-income home energy assistance.

Senate Committee on Energy & Utilities

Senate Hearing Date(s):February 1, 1990

Senate Staff:Phil Moeller (786-7445)

AS OF FEBRUARY 1, 1990

BACKGROUND:

In 1987 the Legislature renewed and added provisions to legislation that limits the ability of utilities to terminate residential space heat during the winter months.  The 1987 legislation added requirements for customers including:  verification on income; agreeing to a payment plan; applying for public and private financial assistance; and applying for weatherization assistance.  Utilities were required to notify customers of the provisions of the legislation and were required to expand the option of budget billing for customers.  This entire program is referred to as the "moratorium" program.

The number of citizens using the moratorium program has steadily declined.  This is at least partly due to the expanded benefits of the budget billing option.  Federal funds for energy assistance and low income weatherization have also steadily declined.

The 1987 legislation is set to expire June 30, 1990.

SUMMARY:

The program limiting winter heat termination is extended until June 30, 1991.

A joint select committee is established to study the issues surrounding the ability of low income persons to pay for heat.  The joint select committee consists of six members from the House of Representatives and six members from the Senate.  The joint select committee is to report its findings and recommendations to the full Legislature by November 1, 1990.

Appropriation:  none

Revenue:   none

Fiscal Note:    requested January 31, 1990

Appointments by Legislature Required: Six members from the Senate appointed by the President of the Senate and six members of the House of Representatives appointed by the Speaker of the House.