Bill > HB1187

This bill prohibits the Public Service Commission (PSC), which oversees utility companies, from approving any rate increase for a water company or a sewage disposal company if a county or municipality has already started or indicated an intention to start a condemnation proceeding, which is a legal process where a government entity can take private property for public use, often through eminent domain. Additionally, the bill requires a fact finder, who is an impartial person appointed to investigate and report on facts in a legal dispute, to consider specific factors when evaluating a condemnation proceeding involving a water company or a sewage disposal company. These factors include the cost of any necessary upgrades to ensure safe and reliable service for the company and the potential benefit to customers in terms of lower water or sewer bills if the company is acquired by a county or municipality through this condemnation process.

Transportation and Infrastructure

https://mgaleg.maryland.gov/mgawebsite/Legislation/Details/HB1187?ys=2026RS