The Puerto Rico Senate approved a bill that would allow residential customers to repay overdue water and electricity debts through income‑based payment plans. The legislation, House Bill 133, titled the Essential Services Continuity Payment Plans Act, is part of a broader package of measures that also covers digital safety, agriculture, government spending and tax issues. Under the proposal, households with outstanding balances to water and power utilities could enter into a payment agreement that requires an initial payment of 5% to 20% of the total debt. Subsequent monthly installments would be set at no more than 5% of the household’s income, with the aim of preventing disconnections while helping consumers meet their obligations. The bill also extends similar payment options to small businesses, allows the distribution of extraordinary rate increases over time, and introduces levelized billing to make utility costs more predictable. Lawmakers said the measure is intended to provide relief to consumers facing rising living costs and utility expenses while ensuring continued access to essential services.
Article source: San Juan Daily Star | Image credit: San Juan Daily Star