SENATE PASSES MADON RESOLUTION ADDRESSING UTILITY AFFORDABILITY
FRANKFORT, Ky. (March 16, 2026) — The Kentucky Senate has passed legislation sponsored by Scott Madon directing the Kentucky Public Service Commission to examine new strategies aimed at improving the affordability of essential utility services for Kentuckians.
Senate Joint Resolution (SJR) 75 directs the commission to open administrative cases exploring policies that could help low- and fixed-income households maintain access to vital services such as electricity, natural gas, water, and sewer.
The review will bring together utilities, consumer advocates, community organizations, and other stakeholders to identify practical solutions that balance affordability for customers with the financial stability utilities need to continue operating and maintaining infrastructure.
“Access to electricity, water, and other basic utility services is fundamental to the health and well-being of Kentucky families,” Madon said. “This resolution creates a structured process to examine how we can better support households facing affordability challenges while ensuring utilities remain able to provide safe and reliable service.”
Under the resolution, the Public Service Commission will study strategies to help prevent service disconnections, reduce the burden of late fees and payment delinquencies, and evaluate possible policy options such as changes in rate design or expanded assistance programs.
The commission will report its findings and recommendations to the General Assembly no later than September 1, 2027. The resolution includes an emergency clause allowing the review process to begin immediately upon enactment due to rising electricity costs and anticipated reductions in federal assistance programs such as the Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program.
Madon said the effort reflects the General Assembly’s responsibility to ensure essential services remain accessible to Kentuckians while encouraging thoughtful collaboration among regulators, utilities, and community stakeholders.
“This is about bringing everyone to the table and taking a thoughtful look at how we protect access to essential services,” Madon added. “By studying the issue now, we can develop responsible, long-term solutions that keep utility service reliable and affordable for families across the Commonwealth.”
SJR 75 now moves to the House of Representatives for consideration.
Learn more about bills, committees and other important updates on the 2026 Regular Session at www.kylegislature.gov.