Assemblywoman Eliana Pintor Marin’s legislation establishing a Summer Termination Program was signed into law on Wednesday.

The bill prevents local utilities from discontinuing electric, sewer, and water services to certain customers between June 15 and August 31, traditionally the hottest part of the summer. Assembly members Reginald Atkins, Verlina Reynolds-Jackson and Annette Quijano also sponsored the legislation.

The bill tasks the New Jersey Department of Community Affairs and the New Jersey Board of Public Utilities (BPU) to each create a Summer Termination Program. Under the bill, residential utility customers who are eligible for utility shutoff protections under the program and whose electric, sewer, or water service has been terminated for nonpayment prior to June 15 will have their service restored on June 15 – without a reconnection fee.

The bill sponsors offered the following comments on the passage of the legislation:

“The Summer Termination Program makes sure essential utilities remain on when families need them most,” said Assemblywoman Pintor Marin (D-Essex, Hudson). “This policy is a vital safeguard for public health and community stability. It reflects our commitment to protecting working families and strengthening resilience in the face of extreme heat.”

“This bill is about leveling the playing field, giving vulnerable residents the same stability and security that every New Jersey family deserves,” said Assemblyman Atkins (D-Union). “No individual with chronic health issues should suffer due to their socio-economic status. I’m proud to see legislation creating a Summer Termination Program signed into law, safeguarding low-income households from the harsh consequences of utility shutoffs during the hottest months of the year.”

“The Summer Termination Program is part of a vision for a New Jersey where no one’s health or safety is put at risk because of financial hardship in the heat of summer,” said Assemblywoman Reynolds-Jackson (D-Hunterdon, Mercer). “This legislation protects vulnerable New Jerseyans during the hot summer months while laying the groundwork for more resilient and stronger communities as extreme weather becomes more frequent.”

“Working families are already stretched thin—this bill is an important way we can help make sure they are able to keep their lights on and their homes cooled in the summer,” said Assemblywoman Quijano (D-Union). “By ensuring uninterrupted utility service in the summer, we’re protecting them from costly reconnections and helping keep more money in their pockets where it belongs.”