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Bill

HB 1196

Prince George's County - Utility Services - Master Meters MC/PG 115-25

2025 Regular Session

HB 1196 regulates master meter utility billing arrangements in Prince George's County to ensure transparent cost allocation and fair charging between property owners and tenants.

Hearing canceled
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Bill Summary · HB 1196

Legislative bill overview

HB 1196 addresses master meter utility service arrangements in Prince George's County, Maryland. The bill appears to regulate how multi-unit residential or commercial properties are charged for water, gas, or electric services when a single master meter serves multiple individual units. The specific provisions would standardize billing, cost allocation, or service responsibilities among property owners, tenants, and utility providers.

Why is this important

Master metering arrangements can create disputes over fair cost allocation, with individual unit occupants potentially paying inflated rates or lacking access to accurate consumption data. Clarifying these arrangements protects both property owners and tenants from billing disputes and ensures transparent utility cost distribution in multi-unit buildings, which is particularly relevant in densely populated areas like Prince George's County.

Potential points of contention

  • Tenant protections vs. landlord burdens: Regulations requiring transparent billing or rate caps may increase compliance costs for property owners while protecting tenants from overcharges
  • Utility company involvement: Unclear how regulations interact with utility providers' existing tariff structures and their willingness to support master meter reforms
  • Scope and enforcement: Questions about which properties fall under the bill's requirements and who enforces compliance (county, state, or utilities commission)

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

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