On July 31, Governor Inslee issued Proclamation 20-23.7, extending the temporary pause on utilities disconnecting service, refusing to reconnect service, and charging late fees through Oct. 15.
Utilities should proactively reach out to customers with overdue accounts to encourage customers to enter into payment arrangements. The proclamation also provides updated guidance for telecommunications companies.
Guidance for Telecommunications Companies:
- For all telecommunications companies with more than 1,000 customers:
- Companies should develop outreach and communications plans to provide information to customers about options for bill payment assistance and email communications initiated by the utility and/or customer. Where needed, information should be provided in languages other than English.
- The Utilities and Transportation Commission (UTC) will serve as the single point of contact within state government for customers seeking energy bill assistance information at 1-888-333-WUTC (9882) or consumer@utc.wa.gov.
- All COVID-19 Utility Customer Support Programs should be posted on a publicly accessible website.
Read the complete guidelines on the Governor’s website.
Topic(s)
Telecom