MPUC Comment on FairPoint Bankruptcy Court Action Today
December 3, 2009
Maine Public Utilities Commission
Press Statement
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Augusta, Maine—
On Monday, the Maine Public Utilities Commission ordered FairPoint to adjust its rates to reflect its poor service quality as provided in its five-year rate plan. As a result, FairPoint’s filed rates were reduced by the Commission $1.72 per line per month for the next year.
On Wednesday, FairPoint filed a motion in the federal bankruptcy court requesting emergency relief from the Commission’s order. The Commission filed a written objection to FairPoint’s motion.
Today, the bankruptcy court set a hearing on the matter for December 9th. “FairPoint is seeking to avoid its service quality index rate obligations,” said Commission Chair Sharon Reishus. “We have objected and the court has set a hearing for next Wednesday.”
The Maine Public Utilities Commission regulates electric, telephone, water and gas utilities to ensure that Maine citizens have access to safe and reliable utility service at rates that are just and reasonable for all ratepayers. Commission programs include Maine Enhanced 911 Service, Dig Safe, and Efficiency Maine.
Contact: Evelyn deFrees, 207-287-6141 evelyn.defrees@maine.gov
