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Industry split over emergency‑delivery rules as Commerce committee reviews propane, heating‑oil protections
Summary
Lawmakers heard dueling accounts about proposed consumer protections for home heating contracts in HB 12‑62: the attorney general cited 171 consumer contacts and an "emergency delivery" option for low tanks, while propane dealers warned safety, logistical and chain‑of‑custody issues make that provision impractical and urged targeted enforcement instead.
The Commerce Committee heard sustained, often pointed testimony Tuesday on House Bill 12‑62, a bill sponsored by Representative Gianna Lucas that would tighten consumer protections in home heating oil and propane contracts.
"We received 171 contacts from New Hampshire consumers this heating season," Assistant Attorney General Mary Stewart told the committee, describing complaints about delayed deliveries, surprise fees and difficulty terminating service. Stewart said sections of the bill would require clearer disclosure of fees and refund of fuel remaining in tanks when service ends, set time limits for tank removal, and — for emergency situations — require action when a company verifies 25 gallons or less in a customer's tank: either deliver fuel within five days or notify the consumer within 24 hours and provide written authorization allowing another…
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