BILL REQ. #:  S-4659.1 

READ FIRST TIME 01/30/06.   

     AN ACT Relating to utility charges; and adding a new section to chapter 35.92 RCW.

BE IT ENACTED BY THE LEGISLATURE OF THE STATE OF WASHINGTON:

NEW SECTION.  Sec. 1   A new section is added to chapter 35.92 RCW to read as follows:
     (1) A city or town providing residential gas, electric, or water utility service under this chapter may require the following information when an applicant applies for the service:
     (a) The applicant's name, address, and telephone number, and an alternative contact telephone number, if applicable, of the responsible party at the service premises;
     (b) The date the service is requested to be effective;
     (c) The type of equipment to be served at the service premises;
     (d) One source of identification. The applicant may choose from a list, provided by the city or town, of at least five sources of identification. The list must include a current driver's license or other picture identification; and
     (e) Any additional information the city or town may reasonably require for billing or service.
     (2) Where multiple individuals are liable for payment of a utility charge, each responsible party shall provide acknowledgment of that liability by signing a form provided by the utility. The utility may allow up to thirty days for submittal of the signature, which may be provided in person or by mail. If the acknowledgment is not provided within thirty days, the utility may terminate services or be limited to seeking payment from the individual who established the account.
     (3) The city or town may not refuse to provide service to an applicant or customer because there are outstanding amounts due from a prior customer at the same premises, unless the city or town can determine, based on objective evidence, that a fraudulent act is being committed such that the applicant or customer is acting in cooperation with the prior customer with the intent to avoid payment.
     (4) The requirements of subsections (1) and (2) of this section apply only to applicants seeking utility service after July 1, 2006.