Bill > H2844

This bill aims to establish consumer protections in the sale and usage of propane gas. It defines "propane consumer" as any person who purchases propane for personal consumption, and "propane distributor" as any person who sells or offers to sell propane to propane consumers. The bill requires the Department of Public Utilities to investigate irregularities, complaints, and unfair or deceptive acts in commerce by propane distributors, and to promulgate rules and regulations to facilitate fair and equitable transactions between propane distributors and propane consumers. Violations of these provisions would constitute an unfair and deceptive act under the state's consumer protection laws. The bill also imposes specific restrictions on propane distributors, such as prohibiting minimum usage fees, fees for undelivered propane, and requirements to purchase a minimum number of gallons per year. It also limits the fees that can be charged when terminating propane service, and requires propane distributors to deliver propane to storage tanks owned by the consumer, provided certain safety conditions are met.

Transportation and Infrastructure

https://malegislature.gov/Bills/191/H2844