The legislative bill SF No. 701 requires electric utilities in Minnesota to obtain written consent from homeowners or business owners before installing smart meter gateway devices on their properties. These devices can communicate with and control various electrical appliances and equipment. The bill mandates that the consent form be clear and explicit that opting in is voluntary and will not affect the person’s electric service if they choose not to participate. Additionally, electric utilities must inform property owners if such a device is already installed and must remove it upon request. This legislation aims to increase consumer control and transparency over the installation and operation of smart meter gateway devices in residential and business settings.