reglab/statecodes huggingface dataset:
Code of Maryland Regulations › Title 20 - PUBLIC SERVICE COMMISSION › Subtitle 53 - COMPETITIVE ELECTRICITY SUPPLY › Chapter 20.53.07 - Residential Customer Protection › Section 20.53.07.04 - Geographic Marketing

Current through Register Vol. 51, No. 14, July 12, 2024
A. A supplier may market services on a geographic basis.
B. A supplier is not required to offer services throughout a particular utility's entire service territory.
C. A supplier may not refuse to provide service to a customer based on the economic character of a geographic area or the collective credit reputation of the area.
Code of Maryland Regulations › Title 20 - PUBLIC SERVICE COMMISSION › Subtitle 53 - COMPETITIVE ELECTRICITY SUPPLY › Chapter 20.53.07 - Residential Customer Protection › Section 20.53.07.05 - Unauthorized Enrollment or Service

Current through Register Vol. 51, No. 14, July 12, 2024
A. A supplier may not enroll a customer without the customer's consent.
B. A supplier may not add a new charge for a new service, existing service, or service option without first obtaining consent from the customer, verifiable to the same extent and using the same methods specified for contracting under Regulation .08 of this chapter.
C. Prohibition on Serving Energy Assistance Households on Unapproved Contracts.
(1) For contracts signed on or after July 1, 2023, a supplier may not charge an energy assistance household for supply services unless those charges are for a Commission-approved contract for energy assistance households as set forth in COMAR 20.51.02.10.
(2) Prior to submitting an enrollment, a supplier shall make reasonable efforts to ensure that energy assistance households are only enrolled on approved contracts, including, but not limited to:
(a) Customer inquiry;
(b) Disclosing to the customer that an unapproved offer is not available to energy assistance households;
(c) Checking the My OHEP Status Portal; or
(d) Acquiring pre-enrollment information as provided in COMAR 20.53.03.02A(8).
Code of Maryland Regulations › Title 20 - PUBLIC SERVICE COMMISSION › Subtitle 53 - COMPETITIVE ELECTRICITY SUPPLY › Chapter 20.53.07 - Residential Customer Protection › Section 20.53.07.06 - Termination

Current through Register Vol. 51, No. 14, July 12, 2024
A. Except as provided under §§B and C of this regulation, a utility may not terminate service for failure of a customer to pay supplier charges.
B. If a utility purchases the receivables of a supplier under COMAR 20.53.05.03B, the purchased supplier receivables become utility charges for the purpose of termination of service under COMAR 20.31.
C. If a utility purchases arrearages attributable to a utility as described in COMAR 20.53.05.12D from a supplier providing supplier-consolidated billing services, the purchased arrearages become utility charges for the purpose of termination of service under COMAR 20.31.
Code of Maryland Regulations › Title 20 - PUBLIC SERVICE COMMISSION › Subtitle 53 - COMPETITIVE ELECTRICITY SUPPLY › Chapter 20.53.07 - Residential Customer Protection › Section 20.53.07.07 - Advertising and Solicitations

Current through Register Vol. 51, No. 14, July 12, 2024
A. Advertising Permitted.
(1) A supplier may advertise its services.
(2) A supplier may not engage in a marketing or trade practice that is unfair, false, misleading, or deceptive.
(3) A supplier may not make an offer to an energy assistance household unless the offer is for a Commission-approved contract for energy assistance households.
Code of Maryland Regulations › Title 20 - PUBLIC SERVICE COMMISSION › Subtitle 53 - COMPETITIVE ELECTRICITY SUPPLY › Chapter 20.53.07 - Residential Customer Protection › Section 20.53.07.09 - Customer Disclosure

Current through Register Vol. 51, No. 14, July 12, 2024
A. Price Information.
(1) The supplier's price description for service shall include, but not be limited to, all fixed and variable components.
(2) When noncommodity products are provided with the commodity under supplier-consolidated billing, the supplier shall:
(a) List the commodity price for energy service separately from other products if the commodity is sold separately from the other products;
(b) List the total charges for all products and services as the price of the commodity if the supplier does not permit a customer to purchase the electricity product without purchasing the other products or services;
(c) Provide the approximate commodity and noncommodity portions of the price upon the customer's request; and
(d) Disclose, if the commodity product has a one-time up-front cost, the price of a commodity product over a 12-month period with 1/12 of the cost being attributed to a single month for the purposes of comparing to the supply price comparison information in the utility service territory.
(3) When an electricity supplier compares the supplier's price to the price a customer would pay for utility electric commodity service, the electric commodity services price is the standard offer service price offered in the electric utility territory where the supplier's service is to be provided.
Code of Maryland Regulations › Title 20 - PUBLIC SERVICE COMMISSION › Subtitle 53 - COMPETITIVE ELECTRICITY SUPPLY › Chapter 20.53.07 - Residential Customer Protection › Section 20.53.07.10 - Notice of Contract Expiration or Cancellation

Current through Register Vol. 51, No. 14, July 12, 2024
A. Notice. Except as permitted in §§D and G of this regulation, a supplier shall provide the customer with notice at least 30 days before expiration or cancellation of a supply contract.
B. Contents of Notice. The supplier's expiration or cancellation notice required under §A of this regulation shall include:
(1) Final bill payment instructions;
(2) A statement informing the customer that, unless the customer selects a new service provider, cancellation of the contract shall return the customer to the utility; and
(3) The toll free telephone number and the web site address of the Commission.
Code of Maryland Regulations › Title 20 - PUBLIC SERVICE COMMISSION › Subtitle 53 - COMPETITIVE ELECTRICITY SUPPLY › Chapter 20.53.07 - Residential Customer Protection › Section 20.53.07.12 - Assignment of Contract

Current through Register Vol. 51, No. 14, July 12, 2024
A. At least 30 days prior to the effective date of any assignment or transfer of a supplier contract from one supplier to another, the suppliers shall jointly provide written notice to the customers of the supplier, the Commission, the utility and the Office of People's Counsel of the assignment or transfer.
(1) Notice to Customer. The suppliers shall jointly send a letter to the customer informing them of the assignment or transfer. The letter shall include:
(a) A description of the transaction in clear and concise language including the effective date of the assignment or transfer;
(b) Customer service contact information for the assignee; and
(c) A statement that the terms and conditions of the customer's contract at the time of assignment shall remain the same for the remainder of the contract term.
Code of Maryland Regulations › Title 20 - PUBLIC SERVICE COMMISSION › Subtitle 53 - COMPETITIVE ELECTRICITY SUPPLY › Chapter 20.53.07 - Residential Customer Protection › Section 20.53.07.13 - Notice of Change in Rate

Current through Register Vol. 51, No. 14, July 12, 2024
A. When a customer's rate changes, a supplier shall make available to a customer his or her rate for the next billing period:
(1) The rate shall be made available at least 12 days prior to close of the customer's billing period;
(2) The rate shall be made available in a clear, easy to access format prescribed by the supplier;
(3) The supplier shall promptly provide the customer written directions on how to access the rate:
(a) At the time of contracting;
(b) In the Contract Summary;
(c) When sending any notice as required in this title;
(d) Upon request; or
(e) If the supplier changes the directions for accessing the rate.
Code of Maryland Regulations › Title 20 - PUBLIC SERVICE COMMISSION › Subtitle 53 - COMPETITIVE ELECTRICITY SUPPLY › Chapter 20.53.07 - Residential Customer Protection › Section 20.53.07.14 - Energy Assistance Households

Current through Register Vol. 51, No. 14, July 12, 2024
A. Utility Obligation to Reject Enrollments.
(1) Beginning July 1, 2023, a supplier may only enroll energy assistance households onto a Commission-approved contract for energy assistance households.
(2) Beginning on July 1, 2023, when a utility receives a supplier enrollment, the utility shall determine the customer's energy assistance household status and reject the enrollment if the supplier does not have a Commission-approved contract for energy assistance households. When rejecting an enrollment, the utility shall identify the reason for rejecting the enrollment as the customer's energy assistance household status.
(3) The utility shall record the number of rejected enrollments and provide annual reporting to the Commission.
Code of Maryland Regulations › Title 20 - PUBLIC SERVICE COMMISSION › Subtitle 53 - COMPETITIVE ELECTRICITY SUPPLY › Chapter 20.53.08 - Supplier-Consolidated Billing Customer Protections › Section 20.53.08.01 - Scope

Current through Register Vol. 51, No. 14, July 12, 2024
A. This chapter applies to suppliers providing supplier-consolidated billing services.
B. The requirements in this chapter are in addition to all other requirements in COMAR relating to the provision of retail supply.
Code of Maryland Regulations › Title 20 - PUBLIC SERVICE COMMISSION › Subtitle 53 - COMPETITIVE ELECTRICITY SUPPLY › Chapter 20.53.08 - Supplier-Consolidated Billing Customer Protections › Section 20.53.08.02 - Alternative Payment Plans

Current through Register Vol. 51, No. 14, July 12, 2024
A. A supplier is not required to offer alternative payment plans.
B. The supplier shall promptly notify the customer of the outcome of a request for an alternative payment plan.
Code of Maryland Regulations › Title 20 - PUBLIC SERVICE COMMISSION › Subtitle 53 - COMPETITIVE ELECTRICITY SUPPLY › Chapter 20.53.08 - Supplier-Consolidated Billing Customer Protections › Section 20.53.08.03 - Deposits

Current through Register Vol. 51, No. 14, July 12, 2024
A. A supplier may charge a customer a deposit for supplier-consolidated billing, subject to the following:
(1) A supplier may request a maximum of 4 months of supply charges for a deposit related to commodity service;
(2) A supplier is not required to apply its deposit from §A(1) of this regulation or the interest accrued to any utility charges held by the supplier;
(3) Any interest earned on deposits held by a supplier shall be returned to the customer if the deposit is not used for collection purposes;
(4) Unclaimed deposits, with accrued interest, shall be credited to an appropriate account, or shall otherwise be disposed of in accordance with State law;
(5) A supplier shall return a customer's excess deposit to the customer once the customer has no financial obligation to the supplier; and
(6) A supplier shall retain records of deposits for a minimum of 3 years.
Code of Maryland Regulations › Title 20 - PUBLIC SERVICE COMMISSION › Subtitle 53 - COMPETITIVE ELECTRICITY SUPPLY › Chapter 20.53.08 - Supplier-Consolidated Billing Customer Protections › Section 20.53.08.04 - Late Payment Charges

Current through Register Vol. 51, No. 14, July 12, 2024
A. A supplier shall only charge a late fee if it is specified in the customer's contract.
B. A supplier may not charge a late fee in excess of 5 percent.
Code of Maryland Regulations › Title 20 - PUBLIC SERVICE COMMISSION › Subtitle 53 - COMPETITIVE ELECTRICITY SUPPLY › Chapter 20.53.08 - Supplier-Consolidated Billing Customer Protections › Section 20.53.08.05 - Customer Bill Record Retention

Current through Register Vol. 51, No. 14, July 12, 2024
A. A supplier shall retain customer billing records for the length of time necessary to permit both the supplier and the utility to comply with Regulation .06 of this chapter, but not less than 3 years.
B. A supplier shall make available to the Commission or utility records necessary to ensure accurate bills and appropriate application of payments to utility and supply charges upon request.
Code of Maryland Regulations › Title 20 - PUBLIC SERVICE COMMISSION › Subtitle 53 - COMPETITIVE ELECTRICITY SUPPLY › Chapter 20.53.08 - Supplier-Consolidated Billing Customer Protections › Section 20.53.08.06 - Adjustment of Bill

Current through Register Vol. 51, No. 14, July 12, 2024
A. Process When a Utility Issues an Adjustment of Bill as Prescribed in COMAR 20.50.04.05 to a Supplier Providing Supplier-Consolidated Billing.
(1) The supplier shall refund or credit the customer if the bill adjustment results in an overcharge.
(2) The supplier may attempt to collect the amount due from a customer if the bill adjustment made by the utility results in an undercharge.
Code of Maryland Regulations › Title 20 - PUBLIC SERVICE COMMISSION › Subtitle 53 - COMPETITIVE ELECTRICITY SUPPLY › Chapter 20.53.08 - Supplier-Consolidated Billing Customer Protections › Section 20.53.08.07 - Investigation of Complaints

Current through Register Vol. 51, No. 14, July 12, 2024
A. A supplier shall investigate promptly and thoroughly any complaint concerning its charges or practices.
B. A supplier may not charge or pursue collections activities against a customer for charges under dispute at the Commission.
Code of Maryland Regulations › Title 20 - PUBLIC SERVICE COMMISSION › Subtitle 53 - COMPETITIVE ELECTRICITY SUPPLY › Chapter 20.53.08 - Supplier-Consolidated Billing Customer Protections › Section 20.53.08.08 - Customer Rights Pamphlet

Current through Register Vol. 51, No. 14, July 12, 2024
A. A supplier providing supplier-consolidated billing shall prepare a pamphlet for customers that summarizes the rights and responsibilities of a customer receiving supplier-consolidated billing services.
B. The contents of the customer rights pamphlet required under §A of this regulation shall be provided on a form approved by the Commission.
C. The pamphlet shall be mailed or, with the customer's consent, delivered by electronic means to each customer of the supplier:
(1) Together with the contract and contract summary;
(2) When a customer's billing method changes to supplier-consolidated billing services from another billing method;
(3) Upon the customer's request; and
(4) Each October of each subsequent year the customer is with the supplier.
Code of Maryland Regulations › Title 20 - PUBLIC SERVICE COMMISSION › Subtitle 53 - COMPETITIVE ELECTRICITY SUPPLY › Chapter 20.53.08 - Supplier-Consolidated Billing Customer Protections › Section 20.53.08.09 - Call Center Requirements-Supplier-Consolidated Billing

Current through Register Vol. 51, No. 14, July 12, 2024
A. A supplier shall ensure that a supplier's call center representatives who interact with customers at a minimum are able to:
(1) Assist customers with contacting a utility, including providing the utility's phone number, to resolve safety matters related to utility service;
(2) Assist customers with billing, disputes, and complaints requests, and provide the utility customer service number upon request; and
(3) Explain how a customer can file a complaint with the Commission and provide the Commission's contact information.
Code of Maryland Regulations › Title 20 - PUBLIC SERVICE COMMISSION › Subtitle 53 - COMPETITIVE ELECTRICITY SUPPLY › Chapter 20.53.09 - Issuance, Format, and Content of Bills for Supplier-Consolidated Billing › Section 20.53.09.01 - Scope

Current through Register Vol. 51, No. 14, July 12, 2024
This chapter applies to suppliers licensed to issue supplier-consolidated bills.
Code of Maryland Regulations › Title 20 - PUBLIC SERVICE COMMISSION › Subtitle 53 - COMPETITIVE ELECTRICITY SUPPLY › Chapter 20.53.10 - Supplier-Agent Relations › Section 20.53.10.02 - Suppliers Responsible for its Agent

Current through Register Vol. 51, No. 14, July 12, 2024
A. A supplier may use an agent to conduct marketing or sales activities.
B. A supplier is responsible for any fraudulent, deceptive, or other unlawful marketing acts performed by its agent in the conduct of marketing or sales activities on behalf of a supplier.
Code of Maryland Regulations › Title 20 - PUBLIC SERVICE COMMISSION › Subtitle 53 - COMPETITIVE ELECTRICITY SUPPLY › Chapter 20.53.10 - Supplier-Agent Relations › Section 20.53.10.03 - Agent Qualifications and Standards

Current through Register Vol. 51, No. 14, July 12, 2024
A. A supplier shall develop standards and qualifications for individuals it chooses to hire as its agents. A supplier may not permit an individual to be hired if an individual fails to meet its standards. The standards shall ensure to the fullest extent practicable that the agent's qualifications, and for door-to-door agents the results of the criminal history record check, safeguard potential customers with whom the agent may make contact.
B. A supplier may not permit its agent to conduct door-to-door activities unless:
(1) The door-to-door agent's identity has been verified by government-issued identification;
(2) The supplier has ensured that the agent meets any local licensing, registration, or permitting requirements of the jurisdiction where the agent will be conducting door-to-door activities; and
(3) The agent's criminal history record meets the supplier's standards and qualifications.
Code of Maryland Regulations › Title 20 - PUBLIC SERVICE COMMISSION › Subtitle 53 - COMPETITIVE ELECTRICITY SUPPLY › Chapter 20.53.10 - Supplier-Agent Relations › Section 20.53.10.04 - Agent Training

Current through Register Vol. 51, No. 14, July 12, 2024
A. A supplier shall ensure the training of its agents on the following subjects:
(1) Local, State, and federal laws and regulations that govern marketing, telemarketing, consumer protection and door-to-door sales as applicable to the types of marketing and jurisdiction in which the agent shall engage or operate;
(2) Responsible and ethical sales practices;
(3) The supplier's products and services;
(4) The supplier's rates, rate structures, billing, and payment options;
(5) The customer's right to rescind and cancel contracts;
(6) The applicability of an early termination fee for contract cancellation when the supplier has one;
(7) The necessity of adhering to the script and knowledge of the contents of the script if one is used;
(8) The proper completion of transaction documents;
(9) The supplier's Contract Summary;
(10) Terms and definitions related to energy supply, transmission and distribution service as found online at the Commission's website;
(11) Information about how customers may contact the supplier to obtain information about billing, disputes, and complaints; and
(12) The confidentiality and protection of customer information.
Code of Maryland Regulations › Title 20 - PUBLIC SERVICE COMMISSION › Subtitle 53 - COMPETITIVE ELECTRICITY SUPPLY › Chapter 20.53.10 - Supplier-Agent Relations › Section 20.53.10.05 - Agent Identification; Misrepresentation

Current through Register Vol. 51, No. 14, July 12, 2024
A. A supplier shall issue an identification badge to agents to be worn when conducting door-to-door activities or appearing at public events on behalf of a supplier.
The badge shall:
(1) Accurately identify the supplier, its trade name and logo;
(2) Display the agent's photograph;
(3) Display the agent's full name;
(4) Be prominently displayed; and
(5) Display a customer service phone number for the supplier.
Code of Maryland Regulations › Title 20 - PUBLIC SERVICE COMMISSION › Subtitle 53 - COMPETITIVE ELECTRICITY SUPPLY › Chapter 20.53.10 - Supplier-Agent Relations › Section 20.53.10.06 - Door-to-Door Sales

Current through Register Vol. 51, No. 14, July 12, 2024
The following provisions do not preempt the Maryland Door to Door Sales Act.
A. A supplier and its agents shall comply with state and local government ordinances regarding door-to-door marketing and sales activities.
B. A supplier's agent shall:
(1) Prominently display an identification badge; and (2) Offer a business card or other material that lists:
(a) The supplier's name and contact information, including telephone number;
(b) The supplier's Commission license number; and
(c) The agent's name and any other identification numbers provided to the sales agent by the supplier or agent.
Code of Maryland Regulations › Title 20 - PUBLIC SERVICE COMMISSION › Subtitle 53 - COMPETITIVE ELECTRICITY SUPPLY › Chapter 20.53.10 - Supplier-Agent Relations › Section 20.53.10.07 - Notification Regarding Door-to-Door Activity

Current through Register Vol. 51, No. 14, July 12, 2024
A. When a supplier engages in door-to-door activity, the supplier shall notify CAD no later than the morning of the day that the activity begins. The notification shall include general, nonproprietary information about the activity, the period involved and a general description of the geographical area.
B. A supplier shall provide the utility with general, nonproprietary information about the door-to-door activity that caused the supplier to provide notice to the Commission. The supplier shall provide this general information to the utility no later than the morning of the day that the sales and marketing activities begin. The utility shall use this information only for acquainting its customer service representatives with sales and marketing activity occurring in its service territory so that they may address customer inquiries knowledgably. A utility may not use the information for other purposes.
Code of Maryland Regulations › Title 20 - PUBLIC SERVICE COMMISSION › Subtitle 54 - GAS SUPPLIERS › Chapter 20.54.02 - Administrative Provisions › Section 20.54.02.01 - Gas Supplier License Required

Current through Register Vol. 51, No. 14, July 12, 2024
A. A person may not engage in the business of a gas supplier in the State without obtaining a license from the Commission.
B. A person is limited by the terms of the license issued by the Commission.
C. A license granted under this subtitle is valid unless suspended or revoked by the Commission.
D. A license issued under this chapter may not be transferred without prior approval of the Commission.
Code of Maryland Regulations › Title 20 - PUBLIC SERVICE COMMISSION › Subtitle 54 - GAS SUPPLIERS › Chapter 20.54.02 - Administrative Provisions › Section 20.54.02.02 - Application Requirements

Current through Register Vol. 51, No. 14, July 12, 2024
A. A person applying for a gas supplier license or to transfer an existing gas supplier license shall file an application on the form provided by the Commission.
B. The application shall contain at least the following information:
(1) The technical and managerial competency of the applicant;
(2) A statement indicating compliance with all applicable requirements of the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission.
(3) A statement of compliance with applicable federal and State consumer protection laws, and environmental laws and regulations relating to the gas services;
(4) Proof of financial integrity;
(5) A certificate from:
(a) The state under which the applicant's business is formed, indicating that the applicant is in good standing and qualified to do business in the state of formation; and
(b) The Maryland Department of Assessments and Taxation, indicating that the business is qualified to do business in the State, if the business of the applicant is formed under the laws of a state other than Maryland;
(6) An affidavit of tax compliance, including local taxes and surcharges;
(7) If the applicant provides competitive billing services:
(a) A statement of compliance with any local licensing and bonding requirement; and
(b) A copy of the agreement between the gas company and the gas supplier that:
(i) Details the reciprocal responsibilities for collection and ownership of accounts receivable; and
(ii) Prohibits the gas company from commencing collection or service termination action of any kind against a retail customer for nonpayment of utility charges billed by the gas supplier unless the retail customer fails upon request to provide evidence of payment to the gas supplier of the utility charges;
(8) If the applicant intends to collect a deposit or prepayment from a retail customer, a bond as required under COMAR 20.54.03.03B or similar instrument approved by the Commission;
(9) If applicable, a certificate of compliance with the provisions of Labor and Employment Article, Title 9, Annotated Code of Maryland relating to Maryland Workers' Compensation; and
(10) A statement confirming that the applicant will not offer or provide supplier-consolidated billing without Commission licensing that authorizes the provision of supplier-consolidated billing.
Code of Maryland Regulations › Title 20 - PUBLIC SERVICE COMMISSION › Subtitle 54 - GAS SUPPLIERS › Chapter 20.54.02 - Administrative Provisions › Section 20.54.02.03 - Number of Copies; Service

Current through Register Vol. 51, No. 14, July 12, 2024
A. An applicant shall file an electronic copy of an application with the Commission.
B. In addition to filing the application with the Commission, the applicant shall simultaneously provide a copy of the completed application to the Maryland Office of People's Counsel, along with the supporting documentation and any supplemental or updated information.
Code of Maryland Regulations › Title 20 - PUBLIC SERVICE COMMISSION › Subtitle 54 - GAS SUPPLIERS › Chapter 20.54.02 - Administrative Provisions › Section 20.54.02.04 - Material Change in Application Information

Current through Register Vol. 51, No. 14, July 12, 2024
An applicant shall immediately inform the Commission of any material change in the information provided in the application during the application review process.
Code of Maryland Regulations › Title 20 - PUBLIC SERVICE COMMISSION › Subtitle 54 - GAS SUPPLIERS › Chapter 20.54.02 - Administrative Provisions › Section 20.54.02.05 - Fees

Current through Register Vol. 51, No. 14, July 12, 2024
When the initial application is filed, the applicant shall pay a nonrefundable filing fee, as specified by the Commission in the application form.
Code of Maryland Regulations › Title 20 - PUBLIC SERVICE COMMISSION › Subtitle 54 - GAS SUPPLIERS › Chapter 20.54.02 - Administrative Provisions › Section 20.54.02.06 - Accuracy of Information

Current through Register Vol. 51, No. 14, July 12, 2024
A. An applicant that submits misleading, incomplete, inaccurate information or fails to provide updated information as required under COMAR 20.54.03.01B may be penalized under Public Utilities Article, Annotated Code of Maryland.
B. A penalty under §A of this regulation may include the:
(1) Denial of a gas supplier license;
(2) Revocation or suspension of a license issued under Regulation .09 of this chapter;
(3) Imposition of a civil penalty of up to $10,000 per violation;
(4) Imposition of a moratorium on adding or soliciting additional customers; or
(5) Any other action the Commission considers appropriate.
Code of Maryland Regulations › Title 20 - PUBLIC SERVICE COMMISSION › Subtitle 54 - GAS SUPPLIERS › Chapter 20.54.02 - Administrative Provisions › Section 20.54.02.07 - Classification of Information

Current through Register Vol. 51, No. 14, July 12, 2024
A. An applicant may designate answers or documents proprietary or confidential only if there is a valid legal or factual basis supporting the designation.
B. Applicant answers or documents designated as proprietary or confidential shall be reviewed by the Commission.
C. Following review, the Commission shall classify answers or documents identified as proprietary or confidential by the applicant as either public, proprietary, or confidential.
D. Only answers identified as public may be inspected by the general public.
Code of Maryland Regulations › Title 20 - PUBLIC SERVICE COMMISSION › Subtitle 54 - GAS SUPPLIERS › Chapter 20.54.02 - Administrative Provisions › Section 20.54.02.08 - Financial Integrity

Current through Register Vol. 51, No. 14, July 12, 2024
A. Following review of the statement of financial integrity provided by the applicant under Regulation .02B(4) of this chapter, the Commission may require a bond, letter of guarantee, or other financial instrument from the applicant, applicant's parent, or other responsible person.
B. The amount of a bond, letter of guarantee, or other financial instrument required under §A of this regulation shall be established by the Commission and be based on an applicant's financial information.
C. Bonding; Financial Guarantees.
(1) A supplier seeking to be licensed to provide supplier-consolidated billing shall provide and maintain bonding or financial guarantees with the Commission in the amount of $500,000.
(2) The total financial guarantee required under this regulation may include the bond or other form of financial guarantee submitted as proof of financial integrity under §A of this regulation.
(3) A supplier seeking to be licensed to provide supplier-consolidated billing services or providing supplier-consolidated billing services may petition the Commission to lower the total bonding or financial guarantee requirement of $500,000.
Code of Maryland Regulations › Title 20 - PUBLIC SERVICE COMMISSION › Subtitle 54 - GAS SUPPLIERS › Chapter 20.54.02 - Administrative Provisions › Section 20.54.02.09 - Granting a License

Current through Register Vol. 51, No. 14, July 12, 2024
After review, the Commission may grant a license on finding that the issuance will promote a competitive retail gas supply and gas supply services market.
Code of Maryland Regulations › Title 20 - PUBLIC SERVICE COMMISSION › Subtitle 54 - GAS SUPPLIERS › Chapter 20.54.02 - Administrative Provisions › Section 20.54.02.10 - Approving a Contract for Energy Assistance Households

Current through Register Vol. 51, No. 14, July 12, 2024
A. Beginning July 1, 2023, a gas supplier may not serve a customer in an energy assistance household except pursuant to a Commission approved contract for energy assistance households.
B. A gas supplier applying for approval of a contract for energy assistance households shall file on a form provided by the Commission.
C. The submission shall include:
(1) The identity of the applicant;
(2) The service territories and commodities applied for;
(3) A copy of the contract and contract summary form that will be used for sales to energy assistance households;
(4) A description of the price a customer will pay, as it will appear on the customer contract;
(5) For any months where the utility gas commodity price or net purchased gas charge is not known at the time of application, a description of how the supplier will ensure that the retail supplier's rate for energy assistance households remains at or below the utility gas commodity price or net purchased gas charge;
(6) A commitment for the entirety of the term of the supply contract to charge at or below the utility gas commodity price or net purchased gas charge;
(7) A commitment to follow the terms of Public Utilities Article, §4-308, Annotated Code of Maryland; and
(8) A commitment to uniquely identify the offer in such a way as to distinguish the Commission-approved contract for energy assistance households from other supply products the supplier may be offering for sale in Maryland.
Code of Maryland Regulations › Title 20 - PUBLIC SERVICE COMMISSION › Subtitle 54 - GAS SUPPLIERS › Chapter 20.54.03 - Gas Supplier License Requirements › Section 20.54.03.01 - Licensee's Updated Information

Current through Register Vol. 51, No. 14, July 12, 2024
A. Material Changes.
(1) Within 30 days of a material change, a licensed gas supplier shall:
(a) Update or supplement the information required in the application under COMAR 20.54.02.02B(1), (4), (5), and (8) and COMAR 20.54.02.02C; and
(b) File a copy of the updated or supplemental information with the Commission.
Code of Maryland Regulations › Title 20 - PUBLIC SERVICE COMMISSION › Subtitle 54 - GAS SUPPLIERS › Chapter 20.54.03 - Gas Supplier License Requirements › Section 20.54.03.02 - Required Filing - Gas Company Service Agreement

Current through Register Vol. 51, No. 14, July 12, 2024
A gas supplier shall file with the Commission a copy of every service agreement entered into with a gas company within 10 business days of the execution of the agreement.
Code of Maryland Regulations › Title 20 - PUBLIC SERVICE COMMISSION › Subtitle 54 - GAS SUPPLIERS › Chapter 20.54.03 - Gas Supplier License Requirements › Section 20.54.03.03 - Requirement - Collection of Prepayment or Deposit

Current through Register Vol. 51, No. 14, July 12, 2024
A. An applicant who intends to collect or a gas supplier who collects a deposit or prepayment for gas supply from a customer shall post a bond as required under this regulation.
B. The initial bond requirement for an applicant or gas supplier who intends to collect a deposit or prepayment from a customer shall be $50,000.
C. Six months after the posting of the initial bond, or when the amount of deposits or prepayments exceed the initial bond required by this regulation, whichever is earlier, a gas supplier shall:
(1) Conduct an audit, performed by an independent certified public accountant or a Commission auditor;
(2) If an independent certified public accountant is used, provide a copy to the Commission; and
(3) Comply with the bonding requirements in §§D and E of this regulation.
Code of Maryland Regulations › Title 20 - PUBLIC SERVICE COMMISSION › Subtitle 54 - GAS SUPPLIERS › Chapter 20.54.03 - Gas Supplier License Requirements › Section 20.54.03.04 - Form of Bond

Current through Register Vol. 51, No. 14, July 12, 2024
A. The bond required by COMAR 20.54.02.08B or Regulation .03 of this chapter shall be in the form required by the Commission.
B. The bond required by Regulation .03 of this chapter shall at a minimum:
(1) Identify the Maryland Public Service Commission as the sole beneficiary;
(2) Be continuous and subject to cancellation only after 60 days notice to the Commission;
(3) Be in the amount determined under Regulation .03 of this chapter;
(4) Contain the following language or similar language acceptable to the Commission: "Payment under this bond shall be due in the event the Commission determines that the (gas supplier name) is financially insolvent or unable to meet their obligations as a licensed gas supplier in Maryland"; and
(5) Permit the Commission to direct that the proceeds of the bond be paid or disbursed.
Code of Maryland Regulations › Title 20 - PUBLIC SERVICE COMMISSION › Subtitle 54 - GAS SUPPLIERS › Chapter 20.54.03 - Gas Supplier License Requirements › Section 20.54.03.05 - Gas Supplier License - Cessation of Business

Current through Register Vol. 51, No. 14, July 12, 2024
A. A licensee shall provide 60 days prior written notice to the Commission of an intention to cease providing service in the State to all customers:
(1) In a specified gas company service area;
(2) Within a specified customer class; or
(3) A specified type of billing.
Code of Maryland Regulations › Title 20 - PUBLIC SERVICE COMMISSION › Subtitle 54 - GAS SUPPLIERS › Chapter 20.54.03 - Gas Supplier License Requirements › Section 20.54.03.06 - License Revocation or Suspension

Current through Register Vol. 51, No. 14, July 12, 2024
The Commission may revoke or suspend a license, if a licensee:
A. Intentionally provides false information;
B. Switches, or causes to be switched, the gas supply for a customer without first obtaining the customer's permission;
C. Fails to provide gas for its customers;
D. Commits fraud or engages in deceptive practices;
E. Fails to maintain financial integrity;
F. Violates any applicable provision of this title;
G. Violates a Commission Order;
H. Fails to comply with State or local tax laws;
I. Violates any applicable provision of Public Utilities Article, Annotated Code of Maryland, or any State or federal consumer protection law;
J. Is convicted of, or has a principal who is convicted of, a felony or any crime involving fraud, theft, or deceit; or
K. Has a similar license issued by another state or the federal government suspended or revoked.
Code of Maryland Regulations › Title 20 - PUBLIC SERVICE COMMISSION › Subtitle 54 - GAS SUPPLIERS › Chapter 20.54.03 - Gas Supplier License Requirements › Section 20.54.03.07 - Enforcement

Current through Register Vol. 51, No. 14, July 12, 2024
The Commission may enforce the regulations in this subtitle under the provisions of Public Utilities Article, Annotated Code of Maryland.
Code of Maryland Regulations › Title 20 - PUBLIC SERVICE COMMISSION › Subtitle 55 - SERVICE SUPPLIED BY GAS COMPANIES › Chapter 20.55.01 - General › Section 20.55.01.01 - Authorization of Regulations

Current through Register Vol. 51, No. 14, July 12, 2024
The Public Utilities Article, Annotated Code of Maryland, provides that the Commission shall have the power to make such reasonable regulations as it deems necessary to carry out the provisions of this law and any other law relating to the Commission.
Code of Maryland Regulations › Title 20 - PUBLIC SERVICE COMMISSION › Subtitle 55 - SERVICE SUPPLIED BY GAS COMPANIES › Chapter 20.55.01 - General › Section 20.55.01.02 - Application of Regulations

Current through Register Vol. 51, No. 14, July 12, 2024
A. Application. These regulations apply to a gas utility or gas master meter operator operating within the State, under the jurisdiction of the Public Service Commission.
B. Purpose. These regulations are intended to promote safe and adequate service to the public, to provide standards for uniform and reasonable practices, and to outline the responsibility of the public in requesting and receiving service from a utility.
C. Exemption. If unreasonable hardship to a utility, gas master meter operator, or to a customer results from the application of any of these regulations, application may be made to the Commission for the modification of the regulation or for temporary or permanent exemption from its requirements.
D. Modification. The adoption of these regulations does not preclude the Commission from altering or amending them, or from making such modifications with respect to their application as may be found necessary to meet exceptional conditions.
E. Duties Under Other Statutes. These regulations do not relieve any utility from any of its duties under the laws of this State.
Code of Maryland Regulations › Title 20 - PUBLIC SERVICE COMMISSION › Subtitle 55 - SERVICE SUPPLIED BY GAS COMPANIES › Chapter 20.55.01 - General › Section 20.55.01.04 - Definitions

Current through Register Vol. 51, No. 14, July 12, 2024
A. In this subtitle the following terms have the meanings indicated.
B. Terms Defined.
(1) Abbreviations.
(a) "Btu" means British thermal unit.
(b) "LNG" means liquefied natural gas.
(c) "LPG" means liquefied petroleum gas.
(d) "PSIG" means pounds per square inch, gauge.
(e) "W.C." means water column.
Code of Maryland Regulations › Title 20 - PUBLIC SERVICE COMMISSION › Subtitle 55 - SERVICE SUPPLIED BY GAS COMPANIES › Chapter 20.55.02 - Engineering › Section 20.55.02.01 - Good Engineering Practice

Current through Register Vol. 51, No. 14, July 12, 2024
The gas plant of the utility or gas master meter operator shall be constructed, installed, maintained, and operated in accordance with accepted good engineering practice in the gas industry to ensure, as far as reasonably possible, continuity of service, uniformity in the quality of service furnished, and the safety of persons and property.
Code of Maryland Regulations › Title 20 - PUBLIC SERVICE COMMISSION › Subtitle 55 - SERVICE SUPPLIED BY GAS COMPANIES › Chapter 20.55.02 - Engineering › Section 20.55.02.02 - Acceptable Standards

Current through Register Vol. 51, No. 14, July 12, 2024
A. In addition to the regulations found in this chapter, each utility or gas master meter operator shall comply with the following federal regulations, which are incorporated by reference:
(1) 49 CFR 40, "Procedures for Transportation Workplace Drug and Alcohol Testing Programs", as amended;
(2) 49 CFR 191, "Transportation of Natural and Other Gas by Pipeline; Annual Reports, Incident Reports, and Safety Related Condition Reports", as amended;
(3) 49 CFR 192, "Transportation of Natural and Other Gas by Pipeline: Minimum Federal Safety Standards", as amended;
(4) 49 CFR 193, "Liquefied Natural Gas Facilities: Federal Safety Standards", as amended;
(5) 49 CFR 199, "Drug and Alcohol Testing", as amended.
Code of Maryland Regulations › Title 20 - PUBLIC SERVICE COMMISSION › Subtitle 55 - SERVICE SUPPLIED BY GAS COMPANIES › Chapter 20.55.02 - Engineering › Section 20.55.02.03 - Adequacy of Supply

Current through Register Vol. 51, No. 14, July 12, 2024
The production or storage capacity, or both, of the utility's plant, combined with the gas supply regularly available from other sources, shall be sufficiently large to meet all reasonably expectable demands for service.
Code of Maryland Regulations › Title 20 - PUBLIC SERVICE COMMISSION › Subtitle 55 - SERVICE SUPPLIED BY GAS COMPANIES › Chapter 20.55.02 - Engineering › Section 20.55.02.04 - Inspection of Gas Plant

Current through Register Vol. 51, No. 14, July 12, 2024
A. Each utility or gas master meter operator shall adopt a program of inspection of its gas plant in order to determine the necessity for replacement and repair. The frequency of the various inspections shall be based on experience and accepted good practice. Sufficient records shall be kept to give evidence of compliance with the inspection program.
B. Each utility or gas master meter operator shall inspect its gas pipeline system to ensure that it is constructed in accordance with the applicable requirements of this subtitle.
Code of Maryland Regulations › Title 20 - PUBLIC SERVICE COMMISSION › Subtitle 55 - SERVICE SUPPLIED BY GAS COMPANIES › Chapter 20.55.03 - Records and Reports › Section 20.55.03.01 - Tariff

Current through Register Vol. 51, No. 14, July 12, 2024
Each utility shall file with the Commission a copy of its tariff which shall include:
A. Rates. Each schedule of rates for service together with the applicable riders.
B. Rules. The utility's rules, or terms and conditions, describing the utility's policies and practices in rendering service. These rules shall include:
(1) Extension Plan. The utility's plan for the installation of extensions of main and service lines where these facilities are in excess of those included in the regular rates for service and for which the customer shall be required to pay all or part of the cost. The customer's payment under this plan should be related to the investment that the utility prudently can make in consideration of the probable revenue.
(2) Heating Value. The total heating value of the gas in Btu per standard cubic foot.
(3) Material Furnished by Utility. A list of the items which the utility furnishes, owns, and maintains on the customer's premises, such as meters, service line, regulators, vents, and shut-off valves.
(4) No Charge Service. A general statement indicating the extent to which the utility will provide service at no charge for the adjustment of customers' appliances.
(5) Wastage of Gas. A general statement of the utility's policy in making adjustments for wastage of gas when wastage occurs without the knowledge of the customer.
(6) Billing Period. A statement indicating the minimum and maximum number of days for which the utility will bill a customer at its regular monthly rates for service.
(7) Payment Period. A statement indicating the minimum number of days allowed for payment of the gross amount of the customer's bill before service will be terminated for non-payment.
(8) Measurement Base. A statement indicating the atmospheric pressure, the absolute pressure or temperature, or both, used when pressure or temperature correction is made to the metered volume of gas. (See COMAR 20.55.01.04B(5))
Code of Maryland Regulations › Title 20 - PUBLIC SERVICE COMMISSION › Subtitle 55 - SERVICE SUPPLIED BY GAS COMPANIES › Chapter 20.55.03 - Records and Reports › Section 20.55.03.02 - Information to be Filed

Current through Register Vol. 51, No. 14, July 12, 2024
Each utility shall file with the Commission the following items necessary in the administration of these regulations:
A. Special Contracts. A copy of each contract for service not covered by the utility's filed tariff.
B. Installation Rules. A copy of the utility's rules, if any, designed by the utility for the use of engineers, architects, plumbing and heating contractors, etc., covering meter and service installations.
C. Bill Forms. A sample of each type of customer bill form, which shall include the information normally shown on a customer's bill for service.
D. Monthly Payment Plan. Each utility offering to its customers an even or equal monthly payment plan shall file a copy of the plan with the Commission.
E. Map of System. A map showing the utility's operating area. This map shall be revised annually unless no revision is necessary, to reflect a material change in the items listed below.The map on file should reflect the current status of the following items:
(1) Source of supply (gate stations and gate meters);
(2) LNG, LPG and other major storage facilities;
(3) Principal mains by size;
(4) Peak shaving plants;
(5) State boundary crossings;
(6) Franchise service areas approved by the Commission;
(7) Names of all communities (post offices) served.
Code of Maryland Regulations › Title 20 - PUBLIC SERVICE COMMISSION › Subtitle 55 - SERVICE SUPPLIED BY GAS COMPANIES › Chapter 20.55.03 - Records and Reports › Section 20.55.03.03 - Availability of Records

Current through Register Vol. 51, No. 14, July 12, 2024
A. Records. A utility or gas master meter operator shall make available to the Commission or its authorized representative all records required by these regulations or necessary for the administration of these regulations.
B. Location of Pipeline. The utility or gas master meter operator shall:
(1) Record and retain records indicating the location of all pipelines which it owns so that the records are as accurate as reasonably practicable;
(2) Update the records so that all pipelines are included within 6 months of being placed in service; and
(3) Make the information available, upon reasonable request, to:
(a) Contractors,
(b) Other utilities,
(c) Governmental agencies, or
(d) Other interested persons.
Code of Maryland Regulations › Title 20 - PUBLIC SERVICE COMMISSION › Subtitle 55 - SERVICE SUPPLIED BY GAS COMPANIES › Chapter 20.55.03 - Records and Reports › Section 20.55.03.04 - Retention of Records

Current through Register Vol. 51, No. 14, July 12, 2024
A utility or gas master meter operator shall preserve all records required by these regulations for the time specified in 18 CFR 125, as amended, which is incorporated by reference, unless otherwise specified by the Commission.
Code of Maryland Regulations › Title 20 - PUBLIC SERVICE COMMISSION › Subtitle 55 - SERVICE SUPPLIED BY GAS COMPANIES › Chapter 20.55.04 - Customer Relations › Section 20.55.04.01 - Information for Customers

Current through Register Vol. 51, No. 14, July 12, 2024
A. System Maps or Records. Each utility shall maintain up-to-date maps, plans, or records of its entire transmission and distribution systems, with such other information as may be necessary to enable the utility to advise prospective customers, and others entitled to the information, as to the facilities available for serving any locality.
B. Selecting Rate Schedule. Each utility shall assist the customer or prospective customer in selecting the most economical rate schedule.
C. Notifying Customers. Each utility shall notify customers affected by a change in rates or schedule classification.
D. Tariff Notice.
(1) Each utility shall post a notice in a conspicuous place in each office of the utility where applications for service are received, informing the public that a copy of its tariff, as filed with the Commission, is available for inspection.
(2) A utility shall post its tariff and pending tariff changes on its website.
(3) After Commission acceptance of a tariff change, a utility shall update the tariff posted on its website not later than 3 business days after the date of acceptance.