At our October board meeting, the PWSA Board of Directors adopted a resolution to continue the suspension of water shutoffs through March 31, 2021. This extension follows the timeline of PWSA’s Winter Shutoff Moratorium and applies to all residential customers regardless of income. 

Since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic, we have taken thoughtful steps to protect customers and make it easier to access and enroll in our Customer Assistance Programs. 
In addition to suspending water shutoffs, we have also waived the recertification requirements for our Bill Discount Program and the sincere effort payment typically required for those enrolled in the Hardship Grant Program. These changes are currently in effect through the end of the year. 

Our recent rate settlement proposal submitted to the PUC on September 30th includes several enhancements to our assistance programs, which will be effective on or after January 14, 2021, if approved. The discount available through the Bill Discount Program would increase from 75 percent on fixed charges to 100 percent and some eligible customers could receive a 20 percent reduction on water usage charges. The threshold for our Winter Shutoff Moratorium would increase from 250 percent of the FPL to 300 percent. Under our expanded customer assistance outreach program, we hope to increase enrollment in our assistance programs and help customers reduce their bills. 

“Families that are struggling to stay current on their bills are encouraged to contact us,” stated Will Pickering, PWSA Executive Director. “We have simplified enrollment for our assistance programs and are offering flexible payment arrangements to help reduce unpaid balances. We hope that our customers will take advantage of these programs during this difficult time.” 

Extending the suspension of water shutoffs and expanding our Customer Assistance Programs is the right thing to do. During this difficult time, when many are facing unexpected financial hardships, they should not have to choose between paying their water bill and other essential expenses. PWSA is taking every reasonable step to keep rates as low as possible and address the affordability concerns of our lower-income customers. 

For more information about our Customer Assistance Programs, please visit pgh2o.com/CAP and to enroll, contact Dollar Energy Fund at (866) 762-2348. For more information about our recent rate settlement, please visit pgh2o.com/OurWaterFuture.