On February 18, 2025, the District of Columbia Senate State Legislature introduced Council Bill 260124, a significant piece of legislation aimed at protecting vulnerable households from utility disconnections during extreme weather conditions. The bill seeks to establish a more robust framework for disconnection protections, addressing gaps in current regulations that leave many residents at risk during the hottest and coldest months of the year.

The primary provisions of Council Bill 260124 include a prohibition on utility disconnections for protected households from May 15 to September 15 and from November 1 to February 29. Protected households are defined as those with children under 18, seniors aged 65 and older, individuals with disabilities, pregnant individuals, and those receiving certain public assistance programs. This legislation also mandates that eligible customers be offered payment plans, a significant shift from the current policy that requires full payment before service restoration, which can impose substantial financial burdens on families.

The bill responds to the inadequacies of existing laws in the District, which only prevent disconnections based on specific temperature thresholds—95 degrees Fahrenheit or above and 32 degrees Fahrenheit or below. This approach has been criticized for being overly complex and insufficiently protective, especially when compared to the more comprehensive regulations in place in 48 other states.

Debate surrounding the bill has highlighted the need for clearer and more predictable protections for residents, particularly as climate change continues to exacerbate extreme weather events. Supporters argue that the legislation is essential for safeguarding the health and well-being of vulnerable populations, while opponents may raise concerns about the financial implications for utility companies.

The introduction of Council Bill 260124 marks a pivotal moment in the District's legislative efforts to enhance consumer protections in the utility sector. If passed, the bill could set a precedent for similar legislation in other jurisdictions, potentially reshaping the landscape of utility regulation and consumer rights in the face of climate challenges. The next steps will involve committee reviews and discussions, with advocates urging swift action to ensure that vulnerable residents are protected from the risks associated with utility disconnections.