Empire State Today

Residents of New York and New Jersey have one less thing to worry about, because both states have agreed that utility companies will not be allowed to shut off service for nonpayment during the coronavirus emergency, Politico reports.

With residents losing jobs due to the coronavirus pandemic and efforts to contain it, the possibility of failing to pay utility bills is real. 

New York Gov. Andrew Cuomo held a press conference on March 13 announcing that state utility companies have voluntarily agreed to this measure.

“No utility can turn off service…if a person cannot pay their bill as a result of responding to this virus situation,” Cuomo said.

In New Jersey, the parent company of the state’s largest utility also issued a statement to that effect on March 13. The policy will remain in place through the end of April 2020.

“In the interest of protecting public health, PSE&G is temporarily suspending shut-offs of electric or gas service to residential customers for non-payment. This policy is effective immediately. We recognize that customers may experience financial difficulty as a result of the outbreak, whether they or a family member fall ill, are required to quarantine, or because their income is otherwise affected. We hope to alleviate those customers’ concerns about their electric or gas service during this time,” said Michael Jennings, a PSE&G spokesperson.

When it comes to water service, New York City does not shut off service for nonpayment, but does issue liens against properties, Politico wrote. American Water, which provides water service to 650,000 residents in New Jersey and 350,000 in New York, has halted shutoffs, and will restore service to those who have had their water shut off for nonpayment.

Before Cuomo made his announcement on March 13, several utility companies, such as Con Edison, had already notified the Department of Public Service that they would suspend service shutoffs.

In response to these moves, The Empowerment Alliance issued the following statement applauding the utilities' actions:

“As many Americans have seen their work hours reduced or have been laid off, many will be unable to pay for basic energy services,” said Ian Prior, spokesperson for The Empowerment Alliance. “Fortunately, utility companies around the country are doing the right thing and suspending customer shut offs and resuming service. It’s the kind of patriotic response this country needs and The Empowerment Alliance applauds their efforts and encourages all others that can to follow suit.”