Release – Thursday, February 19, 2026.
Commission issues Notice of Proposed Rulemaking and sets public comment period on regulations for key consumer safeguards
HARRISBURG, PA – The Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission (PUC) today voted 4-1 to approve a Notice of Proposed Rulemaking (NOPR) that would formally incorporate key consumer protections into the Commission’s regulations, advancing an effort to provide long-term clarity, consistency, and stability for both utility customers and the utilities that serve them.
The action marks the next step in a process led by PUC Chairman Steve DeFrank to modernize and codify consumer safeguards within 52 Pa. Code Chapter 56, building on policy guidance previously adopted by the Commission to ensure continuity for consumers and utilities.
“This proposed rulemaking reflects the Commission’s responsibility to provide stability during a period of real uncertainty for many households,” Chairman DeFrank said. “By moving these longstanding consumer protections into regulation, we are creating a clear, predictable framework that helps keep essential utility service accessible and affordable, while also giving utilities the certainty they need to plan, operate, and serve customers effectively.”
Moving from Policy to Regulation
The NOPR proposes targeted amendments and additions to Chapter 56 to incorporate consumer protection provisions that have guided residential utility service standards for years. The proposed updates are intended to promote uniform application across the Commonwealth, reduce administrative confusion, and ensure that consumers and utilities alike can rely on a consistent regulatory structure.
As outlined in today’s Order, the proposed rulemaking focuses on incorporating specific provisions into regulation, rather than undertaking a comprehensive review of Chapter 56.
Commissioners noted that advancing this rulemaking now helps provide regulatory certainty as affordability concerns continue to affect households statewide, particularly during the winter heating season.
Public Comment Period
Following publication of the proposed rulemaking in the Pennsylvania Bulletin, interested stakeholders will have the opportunity to participate in the formal rulemaking process:
- Written comments may be filed within 60 days of Pennsylvania Bulletin
- Reply comments may be filed within 90 days of Pennsylvania Bulletin
Comments may be submitted electronically through the Commission’s eFiling system or by mail to the PUC Secretary, as detailed in the NOPR Order. All comments will be posted publicly on the Commission’s website. Additional information about submitting public comments will be provided when the NOPR has been published and the comment period has begun.
The proposed rulemaking will also be reviewed by the Independent Regulatory Review Commission (IRRC) and relevant Legislative Standing Committees, consistent with Pennsylvania’s regulatory review process.
Winter Affordability Reminder: Call Utilities Now
While the rulemaking process moves forward, the PUC emphasized that consumers concerned about higher winter utility bills should not wait to seek help. Colder weather, higher seasonal usage, and recent price changes can result in significantly higher bills during January and February.
The Commission continues to encourage consumers to “Call Utilities Now” if they are worried about paying a winter bill. Early outreach allows customers to discuss payment arrangements, budget billing, and assistance programs before balances grow and become harder to manage.
Consumers who cannot resolve issues directly with their utility can contact the PUC’s Bureau of Consumer Services at 1-800-692-7380 for assistance.
“Even as we move this important rulemaking ahead, our focus on consumer safeguards does not pause,” Chairman DeFrank said. “Winter is when bills are highest and budgets are stretched, and we want Pennsylvanians to know that protections are in place and help is available. Reaching out early can make a meaningful difference in staying safe, warm, and connected.”
About the PUC
The Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission balances the needs of consumers and utilities; ensures safe and reliable utility service at reasonable rates; protects the public interest; educates consumers to make independent and informed utility choices; furthers economic development; and fosters new technologies and competitive markets in an environmentally sound manner.
Visit the PUC’s website at puc.pa.gov for recent news releases and video of select proceedings. You can also follow us on X, Facebook, LinkedIn, Instagram and YouTube. Search for the “Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission” or “PA PUC” on your favorite social media channel for updates on utility issues and other helpful consumer information.
