Rep. Hunt reminds consumers of ‘winter disconnect’ rights

October 23, 2009

AUGUSTA – Mainers who find it hard to make ends meet have strong protections from disconnection of lights, gas and electric heat this winter, said Rep. Rob Hunt, D-Buxton.

“There is help out there for Maine families,” said Hunt. “No family should go without heat this winter.”

By state law, the winter heating season officially began Oct. 15 and extends until May 15. All rented units must receive heat between those dates.

Additionally, Public Utilities Commission (PUC) rules bar utilities from shutting off power to any customer between Nov. 15 and April 15 without explicit permission from the PUC’s Consumer Protection Division. The PUC will work with customers to find financial assistance to pay electric and gas bills during that period, as well.

Rules also require a full information packet explaining consumers’ rights and options be mailed or delivered to homes which have lost heat or light service since last April 15.

Letters from the power company, phone calls and in-person attempts at contact are all required before a winter disconnection can take place, said Hunt. A customer can contact the PUC’s Consumer Assistance Division toll free at 1-800-452-4699 to work out a payment schedule and get free help to seek ways of paying the bills.

These include:

• A year-round Low Income Assistance Program (LIAP) that provides utility bill discounts or credits to challenged families.
• An “Energy Crisis Intervention Program” for eligible families who get disconnection notices and still cannot negotiate or honor an existing payment plan.
• “Emergency Assistance” from the Maine Department of Health and Human Services when a disconnection is imminent.
• Eligible customers on oxygen pumps and ventilators at least eight hours a day may qualify for a utility credit to cover the cost of electricity for life-saving equipment.

Customers should contact their utility company first – likely CMP or Northern Utilities – and if not satisfied call the PUC Consumer Assistance Division for free help.

Mainers may call the Consumer Assistance Division toll-free at 1-800-452-4699, or Hunt at 756-5476.

Contact:

Rep. Rob Hunt, 756-5476
Lori Eschholz, legislative aide, 287-1430
Jodi Quintero, communications director, 287-1433