Maryland PSC prohibits utility shutoffs through November 15th

BALTIMORE, Md. – The Maryland Public Service Commission announced on Monday that it has prohibited residential utility service terminations through November 15th.

Governor Larry Hogan’s Executive Order prohibiting service terminations and late fees is set to expire on September 1st, however, the Commission took this step to protect as many customers as possible from having electric, gas, or water service shut off and provide a transition period that allows residential customers time to apply for assistance programs or to make payment arrangements with their utility companies.

Under today’s ruling, utilities may not begin sending termination notices until October 1st, 45 days in advance of a termination. Residential customers would have 45 days from receipt of a notice to work out a payment plan with their utility or to apply for energy assistance programs. Customers who take either action would not have their service disconnected.

In addition, utilities must offer a minimum payment plan of 12 months, or 24 months for those receiving energy assistance from the state’s Office of Home Energy Programs. Utilities cannot require a down payment or deposit as a condition of beginning a payment plan for any residential customer, including current and new customers.