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HB 353

Prince George's County - Termination of Gas or Electric Service to Multifamily Dwelling Units - Notification PG 406-25

2026 Regular Session

HB 353 requires utilities to provide advance notice before disconnecting gas/electric service to multifamily apartments in Prince George's County, protecting residents from sudden service loss.

First Reading Environment and Transportation
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WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · HB 353

Legislative bill overview

HB 353 establishes notification requirements that utility companies must follow before terminating gas or electric service to multifamily dwelling units in Prince George's County. The bill likely mandates advance notice periods and specific procedures that utilities must follow to give residents opportunity to resolve payment issues before service disconnection occurs.

Why is this important

Utility disconnections directly affect residents' access to heat, cooling, and essential appliances, with particular consequences during extreme weather. Clear notification requirements protect vulnerable populations—including families with children, elderly residents, and low-income households—from sudden service loss while giving them time to seek assistance or make payment arrangements.

Potential points of contention

  • Utility company costs: Requiring extended notification procedures and administrative processes may increase operational costs for utilities, potentially affecting service rates for all customers
  • Payment incentives: Stricter notification requirements could delay revenue collection, raising concerns about cost recovery and whether it discourages timely bill payment
  • Scope limitations: Applying requirements only to multifamily units (not single-family homes) raises fairness questions and creates inconsistent protections across housing types
  • Landlord-tenant complications: In multifamily buildings, unclear responsibility between landlords and utilities for notifications and payment could create enforcement challenges

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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