Diegnan, Van Drew Bill to Require Utilities to Charge Veterans’ Organizations at Residential Rates Signed into Law

TRENTON – Legislation sponsored by Senator Patrick J. Diegnan and Senate Jeff Van Drew that would require a public utility to charge a veterans’ organization a residential rate for service delivered to a property that is primarily used by a veterans’ organization was signed into law by Governor Phil Murphy today.

“Charging a veterans’ organization at a residential rate for electricity is a small accommodation for a group representing men and women who have given so much to our nation,” said Senator Diegnan (D-Middlesex). “By making this a law, we, as a state, are saying we appreciate your service to our country. Many veterans’ organizations are struggling to keep up membership, keep up the maintenance of their posts and pay bills. By doing this small thing, we are lightening that burden just a little.”

“Veterans’ organizations do so much for veterans as well as for their communities.  By charging a residential rate for veterans’ posts, we are taking a heavy weight off their shoulders that will allow them to move funds around that can be used to further help others,” said Senator Van Drew.

The law will require a public utility to charge a veterans’ organization a residential rate for service delivered to the property at which the veterans’ organization primarily operates. This will apply if the residential rate is lower than the commercial rate for service at that property.