Stop Shut-Offs During Shutdowns Act
Term Dictionary
If you come across any unfamiliar words while reading, these resources can help make everything clearer. Pick whichever one works best for you!
- Congress.gov Legislative Glossary - Comprehensive congressional terms
- NVFC Congressional Terms Glossary - Concise, easy-to-understand definitions
The gist
Bans electric shutoffs during federal shutdowns and pushes states and gas utilities to do the same, protecting families who can't pay bills when government funding lapses.
Who wins, who loses
Wins: low-income households, Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) recipients, families with kids or medical equipment needing power.
Loses: electric and gas utilities absorbing unpaid bills and reconnection costs upfront.
What it does
Amends the Public Utility Regulatory Policies Act to ban electric disconnections during any Health and Human Services (HHS) funding lapse.
Blocks utilities from retroactively billing protected customers for missed payments.
Lets state regulators create cost-recovery mechanisms if utility losses are substantial and prudent.
Urges states and gas utilities to waive late fees, reconnection charges, and rate hikes.
Why should I care?
Shutdowns happen often, and LIHEAP heating aid stops flowing when HHS funding lapses. Supporters say no family should freeze because Congress missed a deadline. Critics argue federal mandates on utility rules overstep state authority and shift costs to other ratepayers. Where do you land? Vote below and use "Tell Your Rep" to make sure your voice reaches Congress.