Misappropriation of funds in connection with the payment of utility services; create crime of.

HB 1078 creates a new crime for misappropriating funds meant to pay utility bills, directly affecting landlords, property managers, and businesses handling tenant utility payments. It prohibits failing to pay utility bills within 60 days of receiving funds or using deception to avoid payment, with penalties escalating based on the amount misused: $1,000-$5,000 (up to 5 years jail/fine), $5,000-$25,000 (up to 10 years), and $25,000+ (up to 20 years). The law requires offenders to pay full restitution to affected parties and excludes cases where tenants didn’t pay or utility companies made errors. It takes effect July 1, 2026.