Citizens' Utility Board of Oregon: Commission Announces New Law Protecting Domestic Violence Survivors

What have we done for YOU lately? Since 1984, CUB has saved Oregon ratepayers more than $3.4 billion dollars.

August 19, 2005

Commission Announces New Law Protecting Domestic Violence Survivors

Here is the Oregon Public Utility Commission Press Release announcing the law passed by the Oregon Legislature (and advocated for by CUB and other advocacy groups) during the 2005 Session, a law that will help protect those leaving abusive situations by ensuring them access to telephone service. CUB congratulates our Organizing Director, Jeff Bissonnette, for his hard work over the course of two sessions in working on the passage of this bill.

Commission Adopts Temporary Rules for Victims of Domestic Violence

August 16, 2005

Salem, OR - Effective September 1, 2005 those at risk of domestic violence will not have to worry about having their basic phone service disconnected for unpaid bills.

Today the Oregon Public Utility Commission adopted temporary rules to allow those at risk of domestic violence to go on a payment plan instead of having their service cut off.

Senate Bill 983, which was passed in the recently concluded legislative session, directs the Oregon Public Utility Commission to establish a program that bars local phone companies from disconnecting service if it would significantly endanger a person who is at risk of domestic violence or unwanted contact. It also applies to disabled or elderly individuals at risk of abuse or a victim of stalking.

Clark Jackson, the manager of Consumer Services for the Commission said, "The new program is very similar to our existing emergency medical certificate program, so we will gladly assist the utilities in establishing this new program."

The legislation requires telecommunications utilities to establish procedures for receiving affidavits from customers at risk of domestic violence or abuse. The customer must submit a court issued restraining order with an affidavit to the utility.

SB 983 does not excuse the customer from paying their telephone bill. The law allows the customer to enter into a reasonable payment agreement with the utility if there is an overdue balance.

The Commission expects to have permanent rules in place by February 27 of next year when the temporary rules expire.

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Posted by Oregon CUB at August 19, 2005 01:57 PM

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