Utilities must pay tenants for power outages

Public utilities: consumer services; eligibility for utility power outage credits; provide for. Amends 1939 PA 3 (MCL 460.1 - 460.11) by adding sec. 9f.

Introduced· 2025-09-17

Who's it for

Who's it for: Everyday People

What it means for you

7/10Helps you

Good for everyday people ·

Cost shift

Plain‑English summary, cross‑checked against the official bill text.

The bill would force electric utilities to pay renters and local governments for costs caused by power outages lasting more than four hours.

Our take

What we think, in plain words.

If passed, renters whose landlord pays their electric bill could get money after a blackout, easing the cost of spoiled food or a night away from home. Cities could also get money back for emergency responders and cooling centers. Utilities may raise rates to cover these payouts, so voters should watch the bill now.

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The facts

What the bill actually says, no spin.

Utilities must reimburse renters $50 for outages 4‑24 hours, $200 for outages over 24 hours.
Reimbursement also covers spoiled food, lodging, or other costs the renter incurs.
Utilities must pay local governments for emergency services, warming or cooling centers, backup generators, and other outage costs.
Claims must be filed within 90 days and paid within 30 days after commission approval.
The bill adds a new Section 9f to the 1939 Public Utilities Act.