Bill > HB540

This bill, the Public Service Company Transparency Act, requires investor-owned electric, gas, and combined gas and electric companies in Maryland to provide more information to their customers regarding rate changes. Specifically, before initiating any proceeding that could lead to a rate change, these companies must notify customers through a bill insert or separate email about the proceeding, relevant dates, and where to find information on the Public Service Commission's website. Additionally, they must prepare and publish a 10-year rate trend report that visually depicts rate changes, identifies costs for transmission, distribution, and standard-offer or commodity service, and accounts for all bill line items, including rate riders. Customers will also see a statement on their bills and in automatic payment emails explaining the Public Service Commission's role in regulating these companies. Furthermore, starting in 2028, the Public Service Commission, working with the Office of People's Counsel (a consumer advocacy group), will create and publish an annual rate report in plain language explaining observed rate trends, using information from the companies' 10-year reports. Companies must then distribute this annual report to customers via a bill insert and post it on their website. The Office of People's Counsel is empowered to challenge any inaccurate or misleading information in the Commission's annual report. This act applies to investor-owned utilities but excludes municipal electric utilities and electric cooperatives, and it takes effect on October 1, 2026.

Transportation and Infrastructure

https://mgaleg.maryland.gov/mgawebsite/Legislation/Details/HB0540?ys=2026RS