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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE |
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State
Rep. Chris Sainato |
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Sainato bill to crack down on energy services theft approved by House Consumer Affairs Committee
HARRISBURG, Oct. 18 – The House Consumer Affairs Committee this week approved a bill sponsored by state Rep. Chris Sainato, D-Lawrence/Beaver, that would impose criminal penalties on people convicted of stealing energy services in Pennsylvania.
Sainato said his legislation (H.B. 1716) would add theft of natural gas and propane service, in addition to electricity and telecommunications services, to Pennsylvania’s Theft of Services law.
“Theft of energy service is a huge source of revenue loss and is a safety issue,” Sainato said.
“Meter tempering, bypassing and other means used to steal propane, natural gas or other utility services place people committing the theft, as well as their families and others, in grave danger.”
Sainato said violations of the measure would be classified on a range from a third-degree misdemeanor to a second-degree felony, depending on the value of the natural gas or propane stolen. Violators would face penalties ranging from a $2,500 fine and a year in jail to a $15,000 fine and seven years in prison.
In addition, utilities could seek restitution in civil court for the amount of service stolen, and fire departments or other emergency responders answering a call caused by energy theft could also sue to recover the cost of responding.
Sainato is a member of the House Consumer Affairs committee.
The legislation was sent to the full House of Representatives for consideration.
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CONTACT: Roseann R. Cadau |