Pennsylvania 2023-2024 Regular Session

Pennsylvania House Bill HB2495

Introduced
7/11/24  

Caption

In Public Utility Commission, further providing for consumer protection and information.

Impact

If passed, HB 2495 would set stricter guidelines for public utility companies on how they disclose information to consumers. This could lead to improved consumer confidence and satisfaction, as individuals would gain better insight into the services they pay for. Additionally, the bill could mandate that utilities regularly report consumer complaints and resolutions, providing a clearer picture of service quality.

Summary

House Bill 2495 focuses on consumer protection and the availability of information related to public utilities. The bill aims to enhance transparency in operations of public utility companies, ensuring that consumers have access to essential information that may affect their services and costs. This is particularly significant as it aligns with ongoing efforts to guard consumer rights and promote fair practices in the public utility sector.

Sentiment

The sentiment around HB 2495 appears to be generally positive among consumer advocacy groups and legislative sponsors, who view it as a vital step towards empowering consumers in their engagements with public utilities. However, there may be resistance from utility companies that could view increased regulation as an impediment to their operational flexibility and profitability.

Contention

A notable point of contention revolves around the implementation of these transparency measures. While proponents argue that they are necessary for protecting consumer interests, opponents within the utility sector may fear additional bureaucratic hurdles or cost implications associated with compliance. This debate highlights the balance between consumer rights and business operational needs, which is often a focal challenge in regulatory discussions.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

PA HB322

In Public Utility Commission, further providing for consumer protection and information.

PA HB1077

In responsible utility customer protection, further providing for declaration of policy and for definitions, providing for security deposits, further providing for payment arrangements, for termination of utility service, for reconnection of service, for complaints filed with commission, for public utility duties, for reporting of recipients of public assistance, for reporting to General Assembly and Governor, for nonapplicability and for expiration.

PA HB1112

In restructuring of electric utility industry, further providing for definitions and for duties of electric distribution companies and providing for duties of public utilities.

PA SB154

In Public Utility Code, providing for responsible utility customer protection.

PA HB1202

In restructuring of electric utility industry, further providing for definitions and for duties of electric distribution companies and providing for duties of public utilities.

PA HB757

In natural gas competition, further providing for consumer protections and customer service; in restructuring of electric utility industry, further providing for duties of electric distribution companies; and making an editorial change.

PA SB1298

Providing for public utility credit reporting; and imposing duties on public utilities.

PA HB1862

In rates and distribution systems, further providing for acquisition of water and sewer utilities and for valuation of acquired water and wastewater systems.

PA HB2499

Providing for public utility credit reporting; and imposing duties on public utilities.

PA SB558

In natural gas competition, further providing for standards for restructuring of natural gas utility industry, for consumer protections and customer service and for requirements for natural gas suppliers; and, in restructuring of electric utility industry, further providing for standards for restructuring of electric industry, for duties of electric distribution companies and for requirements for electric generation suppliers.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.