The COVID-19 pandemic has devastated communities and has impacted us all in different ways. Lost jobs, online schools and socially-distant friendships are just the beginning of the list when it comes to how our lives have been changed. One issue that is universal is access to utilities. A public service and essential to human rights, utilities are a necessary resource. Without internet, it’s difficult to sign up for unemployment benefits, look for a new job, attend school online and access crucial health care. Without electricity, cooking and storing food is a huge challenge, as is staying cool through increasing summer heat. Without water, hydration and sanitation become safety issues. These resources are critical at all times, but during this pandemic many public spaces that provide access to internet, air conditioning, or a bathroom are closed.
While utilities are necessary for everyone, they are economically less accessible for some Wisconsinites than others, now more than ever. As unemployment remains high and COVID spreads, crises are compounding. Low income communities -- made up disproportionately of individuals of color -- are less able to make their payments.
Fortunately, since April, the Wisconsin Public Services Commission (PSC), the independent agency in charge of regulating Wisconsin’s public utilities, has continued the moratorium on residential utility disconnection. On July 23, the PSC extended the moratorium through September 1, and they will reconvene on August 20 to discuss further extension. The Wisconsin Chapter of the Sierra Club sent a letter to the Commission advocating for the initial extension, has submitted formal comments, and, along with many organizations across the state, is engaging with the public to ensure that the health and well-being of Wisconsinites is first priority in this decision.
While the pandemic is exacerbating the issue of utility access, this problem existed before and will continue to exist after. In the short term, the PSC must extend the utility shutoff moratorium for the duration of this pandemic, and outstanding and late fees should either be forgiven or covered by public funding. But in the long run, we need to push for proactive solutions, not temporary fixes. These can range from creating low-income, energy efficient housing units to fighting for fair utility rates to combating racism. While we work toward a just system, we must also use the tools we have now -- extending the utility shutoff moratorium is crucial if we want to protect the health and safety of all Wisconsinites.
