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Committee hears extensive testimony on HB 14-86, an opt-out for smart meters; no vote taken
Summary
Supporters testified about health and privacy concerns; utilities and cities testified about costs, operational impacts and low opt-out rates. Committee closed the hearing for further consideration but took no immediate vote.
The House Industry, Business and Labor Committee heard over an hour of public and industry testimony on House Bill 14-86, a bill that would require utilities to provide a written opt-out form and allow customers to have a smart meter removed and replaced with a traditional electromechanical meter.
Representative Dan Johnston, sponsor of the bill, said the measure is not a ban but would provide an opt-out option for customers who have health or privacy concerns. Multiple residents told the committee they experienced new or worsened symptoms after meters were installed; Don Eaton, who said his property is served by Otter Tail, described…
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