Friday, February 23, 2001
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Friday, February 23, 2001 |
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Westmoreland backs tighter gas controls By JOHN
THOMPSON
Rep. Lynn Westmoreland, R-Sharpsburg, is hoping a bill that he cosponsored will bring some relief to consumers reeling with the state's high natural gas bills. "We believe it is time to address the issues facing Georgia's consumers following deregulation," said Westmoreland, whose district includes part of Fayette County. The bill addresses many issues that occurred after the industry was deregulated last year, he said. Some of the bills key provisions include: Gas marketers have to issue refunds to customers who have been overbilled within 30 days. The bill does not require consumers to make a written request for the refund. Customers can switch gas companies twice a year without any switching fees and deposits will be reduced 40 percent. Currently, gas marketers can ask for a deposit of up to 250 percent of the highest expected monthly bill. The deposit would be reduced to 150 percent. The Public Service Commission will produce easily understandable price comparisons every quarter. The PSC will be given more powers concerning the oversight of billing systems and customer service systems. EMCs will be allowed to become marketers of natural gas services. The PSC will be given additional powers to regulate pricing and delivery of natural gas if the market becomes noncompetitive. "This legislation is a comprehensive solution to the current ills in the natural gas market in Georgia," said Rep. Mark Burkhalter, who authored the bill. "It gives the PSC new powers and responsibilities to regulate the marketers, and gives consumers new freedoms." Westmoreland is hoping the legislation will pass quickly.
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