Critics of Stealthy But Heavily Lobbied Energy Bill Say It’s Bad for Consumers #Dinner #Steakhouse

On Feb. 26, in an extraordinary display of unity, all five members of Maryland’s Public Service Commission traveled to Annapolis to testify in the Senate Finance Committee against sweeping legislation that would change the way rates are set for the state’s biggest electric utility companies. The Office of People’s Counsel, the state agency that represents consumers’ interests in matters of utility regulation, also testified against the measure.

That night, Baltimore Gas & Electric, one of several large utilities supporting the bill, treated members of the Finance Committee and the House Economic Matters Committee to dinner at an Annapolis steakhouse.

Two weeks later, what’s known as the Alternative Rate Plan bill, perhaps the most heavily-lobbied piece of legislation this General Assembly session, but one that has largely flown under the radar, is starting to move – and starting to attract some attention. Economic Matters passed it unanimously on Wednesday night, and on Thursday morning, the legislation received preliminary approval on the House floor after a “debate” that lasted approximately 30 seconds.

“Is this bill good for consumers?” asked Del. Jon Cardin (D-Baltimore County).

“Yes,” replied Economic Matters Chair Dereck E. Davis (D-Prince George’s).

Shortly after, AARP, the lobbying group for senior citizens, put out an alert, pleading with its members to contact lawmakers and urge them to kill the bill.

“AARP needs YOUR help to Protect Maryland rate payers!” the alert read. “…The bill is described as a “Utility Wish List” because the Energy Lobby LOVES it!”..

https://www.marylandmatters.org/2019/03/15/critics-of-stealthy-but-heavily-lobbied-energy-bill-say-its-bad-for-consumers/