Michigan Lawmakers Propose Bills to Increase Power Outage Credits and Speed Restoration
Michigan state Senate Democrats have introduced legislation aimed at significantly increasing utility bill credits for power outages and incentivizing faster restoration times. The proposed credits would begin at $5 per hour for the first hour of an outage, escalating to $25 per hour after 72 hours without electricity. Additionally, customers experiencing frequent outages would receive credits: $100 for four service interruptions within a 12-month period, and $200 for more than four interruptions. Renters whose landlords cover electricity costs would also be eligible for credits, including $50 for spoiled food or lodging after four hours without power, and $200 after 24 hours. These proposals are a substantial increase from the current Michigan Public Service Commission (MPSC) mandates, which only require a $44 credit per day during widespread outages, starting after four days, and an additional $44 for six or more outages in a year. State Senator Stephanie Chang (D-Detroit), a sponsor of the bills, stated...
