Bill > S1947

This bill aims to enhance consumer protection and address issues related to private utility lines and poles. It proposes the following key provisions: 1. The Department of Public Utilities shall, upon the request of a residential ratepayer, initiate proceedings to require the delivery of electricity through the generation company or supplier's service lines and distribution system, rather than the customer's private lines, poles, or other equipment. 2. The presence of a private utility pole, post, wire, fixture, or other appliance used for electricity or telecommunications delivery must be disclosed as a material fact in real estate transactions. Failure to disclose this information would be considered an unfair and deceptive practice. 3. Electric bills sent to retail customers must include a notice that the customer is using a private line, wire, pole, post, structure, attachment, or other appliance to receive electricity. Failure to provide such notice would be considered a violation of the law. 4. The rate charged to a customer who owns and maintains their own private utility equipment shall exclude the pro rata share of the maintenance fee for the generation company or supplier's service line and distribution system.

Transportation and Infrastructure

https://malegislature.gov/Bills/191/S1947