Michigan Bill Would Allow People To Opt Out Of Smart Meters, Undermine Federal Program

‘A bill introduced in the Michigan House would allow customers to opt out of installing “smart meter” technology on their homes and businesses. Passage of this bill would allow Michigan residents to protect their own privacy, and it would take a step toward blocking a federal program in effect.
Rep. Gary Glenn (R-Midland) introduced House Bill 4220 (HB4220) along with 17 bipartisan co-sponsors on Feb. 15. The legislation would allow Michigan residents to opt out of any utility company smart meter program with no penalty.
Smart meters monitor home energy usage in minute detail in real time. The devices transmit data to the utility company were it gets stored in databases. Anybody with access to the data can download it for analysts. Without specific criteria limiting access to the data, these devices create significant privacy issues. Smart meters can also be used to remotely limit power usage during peak hours.’
Read more: Michigan Bill Would Allow People To Opt Out Of Smart Meters, Undermine Federal Program