California Governor Bans Water Shutoffs During Coronavirus Emergency

Gov. Gavin Newsom on Thursday prohibited California’s public water utilities from disconnecting water service to homes and essential small businesses during the coronavirus emergency because of late payments.

The executive order requires utilities to restore service to any home that was cut off after March 4.

The order does not eliminate any household water debts, nor does it prevent utilities from charging for water service or eventually recovering charges that went unpaid during the emergency.

California follows in the footsteps of New Hampshire, where Gov. Chris Sununu issued a similar order on March 17.