In a recent meeting of the Public Service Commission in Maryland, the urgency of ensuring reliable electricity access for vulnerable residents took center stage. The discussion was sparked by a poignant personal story shared by a commissioner, who highlighted the plight of a bedridden neighbor reliant on oxygen. This neighbor's life is at risk during power outages, underscoring the critical need for a system that prioritizes the health and safety of the frail and elderly.

The commissioner passionately advocated for the inclusion of licensed social workers in decision-making processes regarding power disconnections. He emphasized that these professionals, who regularly visit individuals like his neighbor, could provide essential insights into health-threatening situations. "We must always be aware of the very basic human element associated with the frail and the elderly," he stated, urging the work group to consider the real-life implications of their regulations.

Echoing this sentiment, another commissioner reinforced the notion that electricity should be viewed as a fundamental right rather than a privilege. He stressed that the goal of any regulatory changes should focus on saving lives, arguing against policies that could inadvertently endanger residents. "We cannot put lives at risk," he declared, advocating for a presumption in favor of maintaining service continuity for all Maryland residents.

The meeting underscored a collective commitment to ensuring that no one is left in the dark, particularly those who depend on electricity for their very survival. As discussions continue, the emphasis remains clear: the health and safety of Maryland's most vulnerable citizens must guide the commission's decisions moving forward.