Gov. Murphy Extends Utility Shut Off Moratorium Through March

NEW JERSEY - Gov. Murphy announced Thursday that he will be signing an executive order extending the moratorium on utility shut offs through March 15, 2021. The moratorium will ensure that no household in the state will have its electricity, gas service, or water shut off for nonpayment.

“If there is any customer whose service has been disconnected during the public health emergency, this order requires that their service be restored,” Murphy said.

The moratorium against the disconnection of internet or voice services is also extended through Nov. 15. However, households with school-age children who require internet connectivity for remote learning will be extended through March 15, 2021.

Per the executive order, cable providers must issue a 12-month payment plan that would allow consumers to pay back what they owe over equal installments before disconnecting internet or voice services.

Only customers will be able to ask for a shorter repayment schedule, and utilities will not be issuing demands for lump-sum payments, Murphy said.

“Our message to residents is clear: as this pandemic and its economic fallout continues, we will continue to have your back,” Murphy added. “As the winter months get closer and closer, no one should fear losing the ability to heat their home.”

The governor also noted that customers can apply to the Board of Public Utilities and Department of Community Affairs payment assistance programs.

“Our utility providers are offering payment plans, and I encourage anyone who can start paying down their balances to do so, even if it’s just a little bit each month,” Murphy continued. “If you’re unable to pay at all, work with your utility provider, the BPU and the Department of Community Affairs to see if you qualify for a payment assistance program.”

New Jersey Board of Public Utilities President Joe Fiordaliso echoed Murphy's comments, urging customers with payment concerns to reach out to utility companies and establish a plan sooner than later.

“These moratoriums aren’t free. Eventually, one has to pay their bill,” said Fiordaliso. “It’s incumbent upon you to reach out to your utility … [and] set up a payment plan so that at the end of the moratorium, you’re not faced with such a gigantic bill that it becomes overwhelming.”

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