Press Release

PUC Seeks Input on Contents of Chapter 14 Impact Report

Published on 3/16/2006

Filed under: Electric Gas Water and Wastewater

HARRISBURG – The Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission (PUC) today invited interested parties to comment on the proposed content for the Commission’s biennial report on the impact of implementation of Chapter 14.

“Because the information we gather will be used to shape future policy decisions regarding Chapter 14, it is vital that we gather correct, useful and functional data,” said Commission Chairman Wendell F. Holland. “I encourage all interested parties to file their comments so we can build a report that will provide specific information of value for the future.”

The Commission approved the comment period by a vote of 5-0. The order includes the following framework for comment:

• Degree to which the requirements of Chapter 14 have been successfully implemented;
• Residential collection information, including more than 35 data categories;
• Level of access to utility service; and
• Effect on the level of consumer complaints and payment arrangement requests filed and adjudicated with the Commission.

Chapter 14 was passed by the General Assembly as Senate Bill 677 and signed into law as Act 201 of 2004.  Chapter 14 seeks to eliminate the opportunities for customers capable of paying to avoid paying their utility bills, and to provide utilities with the means to reduce their uncollectible accounts. 

The law changed the way regulated electric, water and major natural gas utilities handle cash deposits; reconnection of service; termination of service; payment arrangements; and the filing of termination complaints by residential customers. Chapter 14 requires the Commission to provide a report evaluating the affect of the law to the General Assembly and Governor every two years with the first report due by Dec. 14, 2006.

Specific instructions on how to submit comments as well as the deadlines for submission will be available as part of the Commission’s entered order. Comments and replies will be posted on the Commission’s website at www.puc.state.pa.us.  

The Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission ensures safe, reliable and reasonably priced electric, natural gas, water, telephone and transportation service for Pennsylvania consumers, by regulating public utilities and by serving as responsible stewards of competition. For recent news releases, or more information about the PUC, visit our website at www.puc.state.pa.us.

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Docket No:      M-00041802F0003

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