Lansing Update: “MPSC Order Addresses Utility Rates for Michiganders” and more…
Posted April 17, 2020
MPSC Order Addresses Utility Rates for Michiganders
This week, the Michigan Public Service Commission (MPSC) issued an order seeking to improve customer access to safe, reliable, and affordable energy during the COVID-19 (Coronavirus) crisis. The order directs energy utilities under MPSC regulation to outline their practices and plans to address affordability for customers, especially for vulnerable households (i.e. payment flexibility, energy assistance programs, and customer education and outreach). Among other aspects, the order requires minimum protections to be put into place including:
- Suspension of energy disconnections for Michigan's most vulnerable populations -low-income and senior customers- through June 1 and a waiver of late fees for eligible low-income customers receiving energy assistance.
- Allowance for customers exposed to, infected by, or quarantined because of COVID-19 to be eligible for a 30-day medical hold to avoid a disconnection of service.
- Deposits and reconnection fees to be waived for low-income customers, seniors, and customers experiencing COVID-19-related financial hardship and seeking restoration of electric or gas service.
Anyone experiencing difficulty paying their energy bills at this time should contact their local utility to see what assistance may be available.
Responses Needed in the 2020 Census
The 2020 Census plays a critical role in setting Michigan's legislative representation in Washington DC, informing the state and federal redistricting process, guiding state emergency preparedness efforts, and determining the federal funding that is allocated to communities for local needs. It takes approximately ten minutes to fill out, but its benefits will have a significant impact on Michigan for the next ten years. Has your voice been counted? Take action now:
- Respond online with your Census ID at https://my2020census.gov/login.
- Respond through the phone or mail response option; learn more at www.2020Census.gov.
- Encourage others to be counted. Information and graphics about the census are available at www.micatholic.org/2020Census.