Defines that a conspicuous display is a visual illustration showing each component of the utility bill and the cost associated with each component of said bill.

Rhode Island Utility Bill Transparency Bill

This bill establishes a specific definition for what counts as a "conspicuous display" on a utility bill in Rhode Island. Under this proposal, a conspicuous display would mean a clear visual illustration — like a chart, diagram, or breakdown — that shows each individual charge or component that makes up a customer's utility bill, along with the specific cost for each of those components.

The bill would affect anyone who receives a utility bill in Rhode Island, such as customers of electric, gas, or water companies. By requiring that a "conspicuous display" include an itemized visual breakdown, customers would be able to more easily see exactly what they are being charged for and how much each part of their bill costs, rather than receiving a single lump-sum total or a confusing list of fees.

This legislation is primarily a definitional change — it clarifies language that likely already exists in state regulations governing how utility companies must present billing information to customers. While it doesn't directly mandate that utility companies change their bills on its own, establishing this clear definition could be used as a standard that utility regulators and companies must follow when determining whether their billing displays meet legal requirements. The bill has been referred to the House Corporations Committee and is scheduled for a hearing in April 2026.