1. What measures does Massachusetts have in place to ensure language access for undocumented individuals when utilizing utility services?

Massachusetts has several measures in place to ensure language access for undocumented individuals when utilizing utility services, including:

1. Language Assistance Program: The Massachusetts Department of Public Utilities (DPU) has a Language Assistance Program that provides free translation and interpretation services to limited English-proficient customers. This program ensures that customers with limited English proficiency have equal access to utility services.

2. Translation Services: All utilities regulated by the DPU are required to provide written documents, such as bills and notices, in multiple languages upon request from a customer. This requirement applies to residential customers as well as small business customers who meet certain income eligibility requirements.

3. Interpreter Services: In addition to written documents, utilities must also provide oral interpretation services for customers who request it. This includes phone interpretation services and on-site interpreter services if needed.

4. Bilingual Staff: Many utility companies in Massachusetts have bilingual staff members who can assist customers in languages other than English. These staff members are trained on how to handle confidential information and are able to help customers with various utility-related issues.

5. Customer Bill of Rights: The DPU’s Customer Bill of Rights requires all utility companies to inform their customers about the availability of language assistance services in their native language.

6. Community Outreach: The DPU works with community organizations and local governments to raise awareness about language access rights among immigrant communities. This includes providing information about available resources and assistance for limited English-proficient individuals.

7. Complaint Resolution Process: If an individual encounters any issues accessing language assistance services from a utility company, they can file a complaint with the DPU or the Attorney General’s Office for investigation and resolution.

8. Multilingual Resources: The DPU website offers a number of multilingual resources for consumers, including translated fact sheets, brochures, and bill inserts on topics such as energy efficiency and consumer rights.

Overall, Massachusetts has various measures in place to ensure that undocumented individuals have equal access to utility services and can communicate effectively with their service providers.

2. How does Massachusetts guarantee that all utility service providers have adequate language assistance resources for undocumented customers?

The Massachusetts Department of Public Utilities (DPU) has issued regulations that require all utility service providers to have adequate language assistance resources for limited English proficient customers, including undocumented individuals. Specifically, under DPU’s regulations:

1. Service providers must ensure that all customer communications and notices are available in the primary languages spoken by at least 5% of their customer base.

2. They must provide translation services for customers who request it, including translators at no cost to the customer.

3. Providers must train their employees on how to effectively communicate with limited English proficient customers.

4. They must also post signs or provide written notice informing customers of their right to request language assistance resources.

5. Additionally, DPU requires all service providers to maintain a list of qualified interpreters and make this list available to customers upon request.

Overall, these regulations ensure that utility service providers in Massachusetts have adequate language assistance resources in place to effectively serve undocumented customers. If a customer feels that their language needs are not being met by their service provider, they can file a complaint with the DPU for further investigation and resolution.

3. Are there any specific laws or regulations in Massachusetts that mandate language access for undocumented individuals accessing utility services?

Yes, there are several laws and regulations in Massachusetts that mandate language access for undocumented individuals accessing utility services.

1. Language Access Law: In October 2017, the state of Massachusetts passed a Language Access Law (Chapter 6 of the Acts of 2017) that requires all state agencies and executive offices to provide interpretation and translation services to individuals with limited English proficiency. This law includes utilities as one of the covered agencies.

2. Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA): The ADA prohibits discrimination against individuals with disabilities, including those whose disabilities may affect their ability to communicate effectively. This includes providing appropriate language access services to ensure effective communication for people with disabilities.

3. Department of Public Utilities (DPU) Regulations: DPU regulations require all gas and electric companies in Massachusetts to provide interpretation or translation services free of charge to customers who have limited English proficiency or are disabled.

4. Office of Consumer Affairs and Business Regulation (OCABR) Regulations: OCABR regulations require water companies in Massachusetts to provide interpretation or translation services free of charge to customers who have limited English proficiency or are disabled.

5. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) Guidelines: Under Title VII of the Civil Rights Act, employers are prohibited from discriminating against employees on the basis of national origin, which includes language barriers. The EEOC has issued guidelines stating that employers must make reasonable accommodations for employees who have difficulty communicating in English.

In addition, many individual utilities in Massachusetts also have their own policies and procedures for ensuring language access for all customers, regardless of immigration status. For example, some utilities offer translated versions of important documents on their websites, bilingual customer service representatives, and interpreters at in-person appointments.

It is important for undocumented individuals seeking utility services in Massachusetts to know their rights and advocate for language access if needed. They can contact their local utility company or reach out to organizations such as the Massachusetts Immigrant and Refugee Advocacy Coalition (MIRA) for assistance in accessing language services.

4. Does Massachusetts offer translation and interpretation services for key documents and communications related to utility services?

Yes, Massachusetts offers translation and interpretation services for key documents and communications related to utility services. The state has implemented a Language Access Program, which provides free language assistance (interpretation and translation services) for individuals with limited English proficiency in accessing state agency information and services. This includes utilities such as electricity, gas, and water.

Massachusetts also has specific regulations in place that require utility companies to provide language assistance to customers who have difficulty understanding or communicating in English. Under these regulations, utilities are required to translate key documents, such as bills and notices, into the top 10 languages spoken by limited English proficient customers within their service area. They are also required to provide interpreters for non-English speaking customers when conducting business over the phone or in person.

In addition to these requirements, Massachusetts also has a language access complaint process in place for individuals who experience issues accessing utility services due to language barriers. This allows for proper resolution of any language access concerns that may arise.

5. What steps has Massachusetts taken to ensure non-discrimination based on language barriers in utility service provision for undocumented individuals?

Massachusetts has taken several steps to ensure non-discrimination based on language barriers in utility service provision for undocumented individuals:

1. Anti-Discrimination Laws: The state has robust anti-discrimination laws that prohibit discrimination based on national origin and require companies to provide equal treatment to all customers, regardless of their immigration status.

2. Interpreter Services: Under state law, utilities are required to provide interpretation services at no cost to limited English proficiency (LEP) customers who request them. This applies to all forms of communication, including phone calls and written correspondence.

3. Translation of Essential Documents: Utilities are also required to translate essential documents into the languages spoken by their LEP customers. These documents include bills, account information, disconnection notices, and any other important communications.

4. Multilingual Customer Service: Many utility companies in Massachusetts have implemented multilingual customer service lines where individuals can call for assistance in their preferred language.

5. Training for Employees: Some utilities have also trained their employees on cultural competency and working with diverse communities, including undocumented individuals with limited English proficiency.

6. Public Outreach and Education: The state government has conducted public outreach and education campaigns to inform communities about their rights and protections under state anti-discrimination laws. This includes reaching out specifically to immigrant and undocumented communities through partnerships with community organizations.

7. Complaint Process: If an individual believes they have been discriminated against by a utility company based on their immigration status or limited English proficiency, they can file a complaint with the Massachusetts Attorney General’s Office Civil Rights Division or with the Department of Public Utilities (DPU).

Overall, these measures aim to ensure that undocumented individuals in Massachusetts have equal access to utility services without facing discrimination or barriers due to language limitations or immigration status.

6. Are there any penalties or consequences imposed on utility service companies in Massachusetts that fail to provide adequate language access for undocumented customers?

Yes, the Massachusetts Attorney General’s Office has issued guidance for utility service companies outlining their obligations to provide language access under state and federal laws. If a company fails to comply with these obligations, they could face enforcement action from the Attorney General’s Office, including potential penalties or fines. In addition, undocumented customers who experience discrimination or denial of services due to language barriers may also have legal recourse through filing a complaint with the Attorney General’s Office or pursuing a private lawsuit.

7. How does Massachusetts address potential language barriers faced by undocumented individuals when trying to establish new utility service accounts?

The Massachusetts Department of Public Utilities has a number of programs and initiatives in place to address potential language barriers faced by undocumented individuals when trying to establish new utility service accounts:

1. Language Access Program: The Department requires all regulated utilities, including electric and gas companies, to have a Language Access Plan in place. This plan must outline how the company will provide language access services to non-English speaking customers, including those who are undocumented.

2. Translation Services: Utility companies are required to provide documents, such as bills and important notices, in multiple languages depending on the populations they serve. They may also offer translation services over the phone or through online chat systems.

3. In-Person Assistance: Many utility companies have bilingual customer service representatives that can assist non-English speaking customers in person at their offices or at community events.

4. Community Outreach: Utility companies are encouraged to conduct outreach efforts to diverse communities to inform them about their services and language access options.

5. Mediation Services: The Department has a Mediation Program available for unresolved disputes between utility companies and their customers. Mediators can assist with communication barriers and help find a resolution that is satisfactory for both parties.

6. Low-Income Energy Efficiency Programs: Massachusetts offers energy efficiency programs specifically targeted towards low-income households, which may include Spanish-speaking or other non-English speaking individuals.

7. Legal Aid Organizations: There are a number of legal aid organizations in Massachusetts that provide assistance and resources for undocumented individuals facing difficulties with utility services.

Overall, the state of Massachusetts aims to ensure that all residents have equal access to essential services regardless of their immigration status or language barriers they may face.

8. Is there a designated hotline or customer service support specifically aimed at assisting undocumented individuals with their utility service needs in Massachusetts?

No, there is not a specific hotline or customer service support aimed at assisting undocumented individuals with their utility service needs in Massachusetts. However, many utility companies have customer service hotlines that can provide assistance with general inquiries and concerns related to utility services. Some companies may also have language services available to assist non-English speaking customers. In addition, organizations such as the Massachusetts Immigrant and Refugee Advocacy Coalition (MIRA) may be able to provide support and guidance for undocumented individuals seeking assistance with utility services.

9. Are there any educational programs in place in Massachusetts to increase awareness among utility companies about the importance of language access for undocumented individuals?

As of now, there are no specific education programs in place in Massachusetts geared towards utility companies and language access for undocumented individuals. However, the state does have comprehensive language access policies and laws that are applicable to all state agencies and businesses, including utility companies.

For example, the state’s Executive Order 478 established a Language Access Planning and Advisory Group (LAPAG) to promote access to state services for limited-English proficient (LEP) individuals, which includes undocumented individuals. This group actively works with different state agencies to develop strategies for providing language access services.

Additionally, the Office of Refugees and Immigrants (ORI) offers resources and support for organizations seeking to improve their language access services. While not specifically targeted towards utility companies, these resources can be utilized by any business or organization looking to improve their language assistance practices.

Furthermore, some community-based organizations may offer workshops or trainings specifically focused on providing services to LEP individuals, including those who are undocumented. These workshops may cover topics such as cultural competency, methods of effective communication with LEP individuals, and best practices for language access.

Overall, while there may not be specific educational programs targeting utility companies in Massachusetts regarding language access for undocumented individuals, the state has existing policies and resources that can be utilized by businesses and organizations to ensure equal access to services for all members of the community.

10. Does Massachusetts have partnerships with community organizations or advocacy groups to improve language access for undocumented individuals accessing utility services?

Yes, Massachusetts has partnerships with community organizations and advocacy groups to improve language access for undocumented individuals accessing utility services. The state’s Department of Public Utilities has a Language Access Advisory Council, which includes representatives from community organizations such as the Boston Center for Independent Living, the Massachusetts Immigrant and Refugee Advocacy Coalition, and La Colaborativa. This council aims to increase language access for non-English-speaking customers when interacting with utility companies.

Additionally, Mass Energy Consumers Alliance runs a program called “Energy Experts” that offers in-language assistance with energy efficiency and utility billing issues for low-income households, including undocumented individuals. The organization works closely with community-based organizations to promote this program and reach out to underserved communities.

The city of Boston also has a Office of New Bostonians which works to promote immigrant integration and provides resources for language access in various areas, including utility services. Additionally, there are numerous community-based organizations throughout the state that provide legal and social services to undocumented individuals, including assistance with navigating utility services.

11. How does Massachusetts ensure that informational materials provided by utility companies are available in languages other than English, especially for undocumented customers?

Massachusetts has several measures in place to ensure that informational materials provided by utility companies are available in languages other than English, including for undocumented customers. These measures include:

1. State law requires that all utility companies provide outreach and educational materials to customers in the language(s) spoken by a significant portion of their customer base. This includes non-English speaking customers, as well as limited English proficient (LEP) customers.

2. The Department of Public Utilities (DPU), which regulates utility companies in Massachusetts, has regulations in place that require utilities to provide informational materials in languages other than English upon request from customers who are LEP or non-English speaking.

3. DPU also requires each utility company to have a Language Assistance Plan (LAP) that outlines how they will communicate with LEP and non-English speaking customers. This plan must include a list of commonly spoken languages within their service area and the types of communication materials that will be provided in these languages.

4. Utility companies must also provide language assistance services, such as interpretation and translation, free of charge to LEP and non-English speaking customers upon request.

5. DPU conducts regular compliance reviews of utility companies’ LAPs to ensure that they are providing adequate language access services to their diverse customer base.

6. The Attorney General’s Office also has a Language Access Program that provides resources on language access rights and requirements for both consumers and businesses, including utility companies.

7. The state government has partnered with community-based organizations and advocacy groups to disseminate information about energy efficiency programs and services to underserved communities in multiple languages.

8. In addition, DPU hosts public hearings in different languages throughout the year to gather feedback from diverse communities on utility company performance and available resources.

Overall, Massachusetts takes language access for utility services seriously and has established various mechanisms to ensure all residents have equal access to information regardless of their preferred language or citizenship status.

12. Are there any initiatives or funding programs offered by the government of Massachusetts to assist low-income, non-English speaking undocumented individuals with their utility bills?

The State of Massachusetts offers several initiatives and programs to assist low-income individuals with their utility bills, regardless of citizenship or immigration status. These include:
1. Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP): This is a federal program that provides financial assistance for heating and cooling costs to eligible low-income households, including undocumented individuals.
2. Citizen’s Energy Heat Assistance: This is a program funded by the state’s oil industry and administered by the Citizen’s Energy Corporation. It offers discounted home heating oil to eligible low-income households, including undocumented individuals.
3. Good Neighbor Energy Fund: Administered by Salvation Army and sponsored by local utility companies, this program provides emergency energy assistance to households facing financial difficulties.
4. Tax Relief for Low-Income Renters: The state offers a tax credit for eligible low-income renters, including undocumented individuals, to help offset the cost of heating and utility expenses.
5. PIPP Plus: This is a payment assistance plan offered by some gas and electric companies in Massachusetts for customers who struggle to pay their utility bills. Eligibility is based on income level and household size, regardless of citizenship or immigration status.

In addition to these programs, there may also be local non-profit organizations or community groups that offer assistance with utility bills for undocumented individuals. You can contact your local Department of Housing and Community Development or Community Action Agency for more information on available resources in your area.

13. Does the Public Service Commission of Massachusetts conduct regular evaluations of language access compliance by utility companies serving the state’s undocumented population?

Yes, the Public Service Commission (PSC) of Massachusetts conducts regular evaluations of language access compliance by utility companies serving the state’s undocumented population. These evaluations are part of the PSC’s overall oversight and monitoring of utility companies to ensure they are meeting their legal obligations and providing adequate services to all customers, regardless of their immigration status.

The PSC has specific regulations in place that require utility companies to provide language access services to non-English speaking customers, including those who may be undocumented. This includes offering interpretation and translation services for essential customer communications, such as billing notices and website information.

The PSC regularly reviews reports from utility companies detailing their compliance with these regulations, and conducts audits and investigations if there are any concerns or complaints about a company’s language access practices. In addition, the PSC actively solicits feedback from community organizations and advocates working with immigrant communities to identify any issues or gaps in language access services provided by utility companies.

Furthermore, the PSC also regularly holds public hearings to both inform consumers about their rights regarding language access requirements for utilities and gather feedback from the public on how well these requirements are being met. As part of these hearings, the PSC will also collect data on customer experiences with language access services provided by utility companies.

Overall, the PSC is committed to ensuring that all residents of Massachusetts have equal access to essential utility services, regardless of their language or immigration status.

14. What options are available for undocumented individuals who are unable to communicate effectively with their utility provider due to a Language barrier in Massachusetts?

There are several options available for undocumented individuals in Massachusetts who are facing communication barriers with their utility provider due to a language barrier:

1. Seek assistance from a community-based organization: There are many community-based organizations in Massachusetts that provide services specifically for immigrants and non-English speakers. These organizations may be able to help translate and communicate with the utility provider on behalf of the individual.

2. Contact the Attorney General’s Office: The Attorney General’s Office in Massachusetts has a Consumer Hotline that provides language access services for non-English speakers. They may be able to assist with communication between the individual and their utility provider.

3. Request an interpreter or translation services: Some utility companies provide free interpretation or translation services for their customers who do not speak English. The individual can request this service from their utility provider.

4. Use a language line service: There are also language line services available that can provide over-the-phone interpretation for individuals who need assistance communicating with their utility provider.

5. Contact the Department of Public Utilities (DPU): The DPU oversees the regulation of public utilities in Massachusetts and has a dedicated consumer hotline for inquiries and complaints about utility services. They also have resources available for non-English speakers, such as translated materials and interpretation services.

Regardless of status, all residents in Massachusetts have rights when it comes to accessing important utilities like electricity, gas, and water. It is also illegal for utility companies to discriminate against customers based on their immigration status. If an undocumented individual is facing discrimination or difficulties communicating with their utility provider, they can contact the Office for Refugees and Immigrants (ORI) Hotline at 1-800-343-3557 for assistance.

15. In what ways does Massachusetts collaborate with utility companies to address language access disparities for undocumented individuals in rural areas?

There are several ways in which the state of Massachusetts collaborates with utility companies to address language access disparities for undocumented individuals in rural areas:

1. Inclusion of language access requirements in service contracts: The state has mandated that utility companies operating in Massachusetts must include language access requirements in their service contracts. This means that these companies must provide interpretation and translation services for non-English speaking consumers upon request.

2. Collaboration with community organizations: The state works closely with community organizations and non-profit groups that serve marginalized communities, including undocumented individuals, to ensure that information about utility services and assistance programs is effectively communicated to those who may face language barriers.

3. Translator hotline: The Office of Consumer Affairs and Business Regulation, along with the Department of Public Utilities, maintains a translator hotline that provides over-the-phone interpretation services for non-English speaking consumers to communicate with utility companies.

4. Multilingual outreach materials: The state produces and distributes multilingual outreach materials such as brochures, flyers, and videos to educate consumers about their rights and options when it comes to utility services.

5. Training for utility company employees: The Massachusetts Commission Against Discrimination (MCAD) offers training for employees of utility companies on how to effectively communicate with limited English proficient customers and comply with anti-discrimination laws.

6. Language assistance plans: As part of their license requirements, some utility companies are required to develop and implement a language assistance plan that outlines how they will ensure effective communication with non-English speaking consumers.

Overall, the state is committed to working closely with utility companies to ensure that language access disparities are addressed and all consumers have equal access to information and services.

16. Are there any specific language proficiency requirements for customer service representatives working for utility companies in Massachusetts?

In general, there are no specific language proficiency requirements for customer service representatives working for utility companies in Massachusetts. However, the ability to effectively communicate with customers is an important aspect of this job role, so having strong English language skills is typically preferred. Additionally, certain utility companies may have their own language proficiency requirements depending on the demographics of their customer base and the languages commonly spoken in their service area. It is recommended that individuals interested in this job speak with a representative from a specific utility company to inquire about any potential language proficiency requirements they may have.

17. Does Massachusetts offer translated toll-free numbers or online resources for undocumented individuals to seek assistance with their utility service needs?

Yes, the Office of Consumer Affairs and Business Regulation (OCABR) in Massachusetts offers a toll-free number (1-877-886-5066) with translation services available for individuals who are not fluent in English. Additionally, OCABR’s website has resources available in multiple languages, including Spanish, Haitian Creole, Chinese, and Vietnamese. These resources include information on energy assistance programs, consumer rights and protections, and how to file a complaint against a utility company.

18. How does Massachusetts ensure that important safety warnings and instructions related to utilities are effectively communicated to non-English speaking undocumented customers?

Massachusetts has implemented several measures to ensure that safety warnings and instructions related to utilities are effectively communicated to non-English speaking undocumented customers:

1. Language Access Program: The Department of Public Utilities (DPU) in Massachusetts has a Language Access Program that provides language assistance services for limited English proficiency (LEP) customers, including undocumented immigrants. This program ensures that important safety warnings and instructions related to utilities are translated into multiple languages and made accessible to all customers.

2. Multilingual Staff: The DPU also employs a team of multilingual staff who can communicate with customers in their preferred language. This helps to bridge the communication gap between undocumented customers and utility companies and ensures that safety warnings and instructions are clearly understood.

3. Translation Services: Utility companies in Massachusetts are required to provide translation services for non-English speaking customers upon request. This includes translating important safety warnings and instructions into the customer’s preferred language.

4. Outreach Programs: The DPU conducts regular outreach programs targeting non-English speaking communities, including undocumented immigrants, to educate them about utility services and important safety measures. These programs help raise awareness about potential hazards, as well as provide information on how to access translation services.

5. Multi-Lingual Materials: Utility companies in Massachusetts are required to provide multi-lingual materials, such as brochures and pamphlets, on energy conservation, billing procedures, service interruptions, and other essential information related to utilities. These materials are available in multiple languages and accessible through the DPU’s website.

6. Hotline Services: Most utility companies have dedicated hotlines for customers with limited English proficiency or those who require translation services. Customers can call these hotlines for assistance with understanding safety warnings or instructions related to utilities.

7.Government-Sponsored Programs: The Massachusetts Executive Office of Energy and Environmental Affairs offers several programs designed specifically for LEP residents, including undocumented immigrants, focusing on energy efficiency education, assistance with utility bills, and access to translation services.

Through these measures, Massachusetts has been able to effectively communicate important safety warnings and instructions related to utilities to non-English speaking undocumented customers, ensuring that they have the information they need to stay safe and informed.

19. Is there a system in place in Massachusetts for monitoring and reporting on the language access compliance of utility companies serving undocumented individuals?

There are several agencies and organizations in Massachusetts that monitor and report on language access compliance of utility companies, including:

1. Department of Public Utilities: The Department of Public Utilities (DPU) is responsible for overseeing the regulation and enforcement of energy, telecommunications, and water companies in Massachusetts. This includes ensuring that these companies provide language access to their customers, which is mandated by state law.

2. Attorney General’s Office: The Massachusetts Attorney General’s Office has a Energy & Telecommunications Division that advocates for fair and affordable energy prices for all consumers in the state. The division also monitors the compliance of utility companies with laws and regulations related to language access.

3. Office of Consumer Affairs and Business Regulation: This office oversees consumer advocacy efforts in the state, including the protection of consumer rights when dealing with utilities. They have a Consumer Hotline where consumers can report complaints regarding language access or other issues with utility companies.

4. Community-based organizations: There are several community-based organizations in Massachusetts that advocate for language access and other rights of immigrant communities. Some of these organizations work closely with utility companies to ensure they comply with language access laws.

5. Language Access Coalition: The Language Access Coalition is a coalition of organizations in Massachusetts that works to ensure equal access to services for limited English proficient individuals. They also collaborate with utility companies to improve their language access policies and practices.

Overall, while there may not be a specific comprehensive system solely dedicated to monitoring and reporting on language access compliance of utility companies serving undocumented individuals in Massachusetts, there are multiple agencies and organizations working together to ensure compliance and address any issues that may arise.

20. What efforts has Massachusetts made towards improving overall communication and accessibility of utility services for all residents, regardless of immigration status or language proficiency?

1. Language access laws: Massachusetts has enacted several language access laws to ensure that residents with limited English proficiency have equal access to utility services. This includes the Language Access Act, which requires state agencies and contractors to provide interpretation services for non-English speakers, and the Home Energy Services Program Act, which requires utilities to provide free translation services for non-English speakers.

2. Multilingual customer service: Many utility companies in Massachusetts offer multilingual customer service options, including phone lines and websites in languages other than English.

3. Translation of documents: In accordance with state laws, utility companies in Massachusetts are required to provide important documents such as bills, notices, and contracts in multiple languages upon request.

4. Advertising and outreach efforts: Utility companies often conduct advertising campaigns and outreach efforts targeting immigrant communities in multiple languages to ensure that all residents are aware of their services and programs.

5. Partnering with community organizations: Utilities have partnered with local community organizations that serve immigrant populations to improve communication and accessibility of services. These partnerships may include hosting information sessions or providing translation assistance.

6. Online resources: Many utilities in Massachusetts provide online resources in multiple languages, such as bill payment portals and educational materials on energy efficiency and conservation.

7. Cultural competency training for employees: Some utility companies have implemented cultural competency training programs for their employees to better serve diverse communities and understand cultural differences when communicating with customers.

8. Immigrant Rights Hotline: The Attorney General’s Office of Massachusetts runs an Immigrant Rights Hotline where residents can get information about their rights regarding public utilities regardless of their immigration status or language proficiency.

9. Limited Income Discount Programs (LIDP): To help low-income residents afford their monthly energy bills, Massachusetts offers LIDP through its Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) to eligible households who meet income eligibility guidelines.

10. Comprehensive list of non-profit legal services providers: The Attorney General’s Office has compiled a comprehensive list of non-profit legal services providers in Massachusetts that offer free or low-cost legal assistance to immigrants for civil matters, including utility-related issues.