Statement on PUCO’s Announcement to Suspend Water Shutoffs due to Coronavirus Outbreak

Columbus, OH — Last week the Public Utilities Commission of Ohio (PUCO) convened an emergency meeting in which they ordered utilities to review disconnection and other practices that may pose a hardship during the COVID-19 pandemic. Following this order, all of Ohio’s investor-owned utilities have suspended disconnections, including water shutoffs, for customers whose bills are overdue. Other utility providers are taking similar steps.

This announcement follows several key steps the state of Ohio is taking to slow down the spread of the COVID-19 virus including declaring a state of emergency in Ohio. The Ohio Environmental Council commends the PUCO for its leadership in responding to this public health emergency and recognizing that water is a basic need for Ohioans.

The following statement can be attributed to Heather Taylor-Miesle, Executive Director of the Ohio Environmental Council:

“We appreciate the PUCO’s swift action and leadership in response to the coronavirus outbreak and connecting the dots between how crucial water access is to public health. No Ohioans should have to worry about their water being shut off, especially during a public health crisis. This is the right approach and will help families across our state to protect their loved ones.”