Bill Positions

Bill Number: HB 737

Bill Title: Public Service Commission - Acquisition of Power to Influence Electric Company, Gas and Electric Company, or Gas Company Policy or Action - Authorization

Bill Sponsor(s): Del. McHale

Subject: Environment & Energy

Committee: ECM

Bill Summary: The bill would have provided that a specified provision of law may not be construed to limit the authority of the Public Service Commission to authorize a specified person to directly or indirectly acquire the power to exercise influence over the policy or action of an electric company, a gas and electric company, or a gas company.

History: This bill died in ECM without a vote.

Chamber Position: Oppose

Position Summary: Government should not get involved in mergers and acquisitions of the private sector. This bill would have discouraged companies outside of Maryland from investing in Maryland based companies that are the cornerstones of Maryland's economy. Good investment in Maryland companies should be encouraged to help strengthen the economy. For these reasons, the Maryland Chamber opposed this bill.

Position Statement: Click here (pdf)

Chamber Staff: Allyson Black

General Assembly: Click here to view the bill on the Maryland General Assembly's website.