A family of three in Rocky Mount, North Carolina, was found dead after the city disconnected their electricity over an unpaid bill, prompting renewed concern about how utility shutoffs can put financially strained families in serious danger. Now, state lawmakers are questioning city policies and their impact on individuals struggling to make utility payments.
What happened?
According to NC Newsline, authorities have not yet announced an official cause of death in the Aug. 3 deaths of Kenny, Tracey, and Mahala Swann, who were found in their mobile home. Rocky Mount Assistant City Manager C.J. Jordan said the investigation is still ongoing.
The outlet noted that the family was reportedly using a generator in the home after their electricity was cut off due to an unpaid bill.
NC Newsline noted that family members claim the Swanns tried to prevent the electricity shutoff with a partial payment, but the city utility denied the request, citing a requirement of either the full past-due amount or a three-month plan to pay off the entire balance.
The outlet reported that Senator Natalie Murdock said hearing of the family's passing gave her chills.
"I would hope that we would dream of a world where no one dies simply because they're behind on their energy bill," Murdock said. "That's just not acceptable."
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NC Newsline reported that Murdock, along with other lawmakers, filed a bill this year banning utility companies from shutting off power for nonpayment during periods of extreme heat. That bill was never given a hearing by lawmaker leaders.
The case has also drawn renewed attention to Rocky Mount's city-owned utility, which provides electricity, water, gas, and trash service. The utility has reportedly charged higher prices than other providers and has faced billing errors and delays that left some customers owing thousands of dollars while they struggled to reach anyone by phone for help, the outlet reported.
What's being done?
NC Newsline reported that Rocky Mount's mayor and city manager are "in the process of reviewing how residents actually experience the utility billing process — not just what the written policy provides, but whether a customer in trouble can reach a person, understand their options, and get on an arrangement in time for it to matter."
The city is comparing its procedures with best practices and identifying where greater flexibility may be needed.
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At the state level, Murdock said she plans to press utilities and cooperatives for answers as energy costs continue to rise. She specifically pointed to the need for stronger support for low-income households and said she would ask providers what more can be done for ratepayers struggling to keep up.
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