Springfield, IL – The Illinois Senate Energy working group is urging the Illinois Commerce Commission to protect consumers once the stay-at-home order ends. Illinois is currently prohibiting utility companies from shutting off services during the pandemic. Now, the bipartisan group of lawmakers hopes the ICC will consider several new proposals.

The Senators are recommending a 60 day grace period before companies can shut off electric, along with a standard payment plan. Sen. Michael Hastings (D-Tinley Park) says the plans should span at least a year. That timeframe could extend up to two years for anyone with previous certified financial hardship.

Putting customers first

"A lot of people can’t pay their bills, a lot of people are having trouble right now," Hastings said during a virtual press conference Tuesday. "So, for them to have an established set timeframe and established set frame of rules to operate under was essential to convey to the Illinois Commerce Commission so they can go ahead and make their decision."

The working group is also recommending utility companies provide clear information to customers about payment options. As chairman of the working group, Hastings says utility companies should put their customers first during this period. He says many people are dealing with unexpected unemployment due to the pandemic.

"The state is not going to go ahead and pay utility companies during this grace period. I think this is something utility companies should offer their consumers for a 60 day grace period in order for them to get their finances in order, and get them to get their customer base growing again," Hastings added.

The suburban Democrat says the Commission is already talking about these ideas with utility companies. Attorney General Kwame Raoul has also joined the conversation to make arguments on behalf of consumers.