Proposed bill would let utility customers choose payment reporting

Public utilities would give customers the choice to have their payments reported to a nationwide credit reporting agency. It covers customers of Pennsylvania public utilities, including providers of electricity, water, phone, and transportation services. Customers could opt in or out at any time after receiving notice. Utilities could not set a deadline or expiration date for the choice, or later cancel it. The act would take effect 60 days after enactment.

Public utilities would notify customers about the choice and could not charge them for opting in or out. New customers would receive notice when opening an account; customers already served when the law takes effect would receive written notice. Utilities could not pass reporting costs on to customers who choose either option. Written notice to current customers would be due within 45 days after the act takes effect; the act would take effect 60 days after enactment.