Sierra Club’s Lone Star Chapter has signed a joint letter to the Public Utility Commission (PUC) of Texas requesting that the Commission order the suspension of utility shut-offs state wide during the Texas Public Health Emergency response to the spread of COVID-19.
Thousands of Texans are now out of work or receiving reduced wages due to the state-wide business closures issued by local governments to minimize the impact of the Coronavirus. Without the necessary income to continue to make ends meet-- during an emergency response that is as of now indefinite-- Sierra Club and allied organizations are requesting a statewide moratorium on utilities and retail electric providers disconnecting services as a result of non-payment of delinquent charges. Many Texas municipalities and regulated utilities have stepped up, but statewide directives are needed to ensure Texans stay safe and well during this crisis.
In this time of an impending economic recession and lack of employment, coupled with self isolation and social distancing, the State, cities, and utilities must act with compassion for fellow Texans and recognize that all residents deserve access to electricity and water in their homes regardless of their ability to pay.
You can access a PDF version of the letter sent to the PUC of Texas through this link and a PDF of the National sign on letter sent to national organizations including the United States Conference of Mayors and the National Governors Association through this link.