SB 278 is a vital consumer protection measure aimed at ensuring economic justice for utility customers. The bill introduces several key provisions, including an extension of the period during which electric or gas utilities cannot terminate service for qualified households receiving assistance from the Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP). It further prohibits disconnections on specific days and times when customer service representatives are unavailable, eliminates interest charges on delinquent balances, and prevents utilities from imposing fees for reconnection after a household has been disconnected. 

We support this bill, as it safeguards vulnerable households from utility service disruptions and mandates quarterly reporting to assess the state of utility consumers' affairs in Indiana. This data is crucial for understanding affordability issues and implementing policies to ensure access for all Hoosiers.