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House of Representatives
Session of 2021 - 2022 Regular Session

MEMORANDUM

Posted:	December 16, 2020 02:32 PM
From:	Representative Christina D. Sappey
To:	All House members
Subject:	Water Ratepayer Bill of Rights

I have heard concerns from many constituents in my district regarding the acquisition process for a local water authority. My constituents feel that they have very little say in the process and I agree. Residential customers deserve the chance to have their voices heard when the source of their water comes into question.   In order to ensure residential customers all over the state have a fair say in this process, I am proposing legislation for a water ratepayer bill of rights. This comprehensive bill will require a selling utility to conduct a ratepayer referendum where customers will be able to voice issues they may have with a possible water utility acquisition. This bill will also require water and wastewater utilities to publish an annual report with information regarding average residential billing amounts. By doing this, we will also prevent utilities from inflating their costs to the residential consumer.   We must ensure the accountability of the utilities that serve residents where they live, work, and raise their families. We need a system that gives ratepayers a voice and shared information to ensure their families are receiving safe services.   Ratepayers deserve a fair deal.  Join me so we can create a better system and provide ratepayers with transparency and rights.

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