Cable Television
Maine law provides specific rights and protections for consumers of cable television services. If your cable television service is interrupted for 6 or more consecutive hours in a 30-day period, you can request a pro rata credit or rebate and your cable television provider must honor that request. Also, a cable television provider must provide 30 days’ advance written notice of an increase in rates, changes to billing practices, the removal of a channel, and any change to channel or service tiers. If you cancel your cable television service at least 3 working days before the end of your monthly billing period, you are entitled to a pro rata credit or rebate for the days of the monthly billing period after the cancellation. Late fees cannot be assessed until 30 days after the services were received and they cannot exceed 1.5% per month. violation of these rights is also a violation of the Maine Unfair Trade Practices Act.
Public Utilities
The Maine Public Utilities Commission (PUC) regulates utilities that provide electricity, natural gas, and water. The PUC does not regulate sewer districts, most telephone service providers, internet services providers, or cable services providers. If you have a problem with your utility bill or service, you should try to resolve it with the utility first. Ask to speak to a supervisor or manager. Press your case calmly and clearly. If you cannot resolve it directly with the utility, you may file a complaint with the Consumer Assistance Division of the PUC through its online form or by calling 1-800-452-4699.
The PUC does not have the authority to order monetary damages for consumers. The PUC can, however, determine if the utility has acted in accordance with its own policies and the PUC’s rules.