Summer Termination Program to Protect from Utility Shutoffs

On Sep 24, 2025

Acting Gov. Tahesha Way has signed bill A5563/S4361, directing the New Jersey Department of Community Affairs (DCA) and the Board of Public Utilities (BPU) to establish a Summer Termination Program. The program mirrors the existing Winter Termination Program and aims to protect vulnerable residents from utility service discontinuation between June 15 and August 31 each year. This bill signing coincides with New Jersey Climate Week in an effort to support residents impacted by extreme temperatures as a result of the climate crisis.

“Today, we are building on our efforts to ease the regional electricity affordability crisis for New Jersey residents,” said Way. “This legislation will ensure that, during the hot summer months, residents can keep their air conditioning and water running. The Summer Termination Program is one of the many steps our Administration is taking to bolster public health and ensure hardworking New Jerseyans are not forced to endure dangerous heat indoors as climate change continues to exacerbate temperatures in the summer months.”

“The Summer Termination Program provides an important additional tool in our toolbox to help ensure New Jersey residents maintain access to essential utility services that support their well-being and quality of life,” said Christine Guhl-Sadovy, President of the NJBPU.

Under the new law, electricity, water, and sewer service will not be terminated during the June 15 to August 31 protection period for residential customers who demonstrate that they meet the existing eligibility criteria for the Winter Termination Program, or who otherwise demonstrate an inability to pay their utility bills due to circumstances beyond their control.

The prime sponsors of A5563/S4361 are Senators Raj Mukherji and Nilsa Cruz-Perez and Assemblymembers Eliana Pintor Marin, Reginald Atkins, Verlina Reynolds-Jackson, and Annette Quijano.

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