Senate approves income-based payment plans for utility bills
By THE STAR STAFF
The Puerto Rico Senate has approved legislation that would establish income-based payment plans for residential customers struggling to pay overdue water and electricity bills, allowing eligible households to repay debt through monthly installments capped at no more than 5% of family income.
The measure, House Bill 133, known as the Essential Services Continuity Payment Plans Act, is part of a broader package of legislation approved by the upper chamber addressing utility services, digital safety, agriculture, government spending and tax matters.
Under the proposal, residential customers with outstanding balances owed to water and power utilities would be able to enter into payment agreements requiring an initial payment of between 5% and 20% of the accumulated debt. Monthly installments would then be structured according to household income levels, with the goal of preventing service disconnections while helping consumers meet their financial obligations.
The legislation also extends assistance to small businesses by allowing payment plans, the distribution of extraordinary rate increases over time, and levelized billing options intended to make utility costs more manageable.
Lawmakers said the measure seeks to provide relief to consumers facing rising living costs and utility expenses while ensuring continued access to essential services.
