The Consumer Affairs Committee has legislative jurisdiction over all public utilities that are regulated by the Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission, including electric and natural gas distribution, a number of municipal water and wastewater collection and disposal facilities, and monitors public rail and transportation safety.

Additionally, the committee oversees non-municipal water authorities, rural electric cooperatives, telecommunications, transportation, electric and natural gas generation suppliers not regulated by the PUC.

While the committee has jurisdiction over most public utilities, cable and wireless telephone carriers are regulated by the Federal Government. However, if there is a suspected unfair trade practice, the committee can address that issue through hearings and legislative remedy.

The committee regularly reviews legislation addressing consumer-related issues. These include:

• cable company competition;
• gift card expiration;
• home-improvement fraud;
• event data recorders;
• identity theft;
• expanding the Lemon Law;
• unfair or deceptive business and trade practices; and
• online ticket sales.

Consumers are encouraged to sign-up for email alerts to learn about upcoming public hearings. On this Web site, you will also find many useful tips for preventing identity theft, energy conservation repairs/upgrades for your home, product and toy recalls, and many others.

Best Regards,