Electric utility companies in Maryland want the state regulator to remove several consumer protection measures enacted during the coronavirus pandemic. In response to the pandemic, utilities were barred from terminating electric service until October 2020. But utilities were required to enter into payment plans for up to two years for low-income residents, which pauses the disconnection process.

Consumer advocates say the economic toll of the pandemic lingers and has been exacerbated by record high inflation, so it’s too early to return to “business as normal.”

The Maryland Public Service Commission has scheduled a public hearing on Nov. 10 to determine whether the extended protections for residents should continue.

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