Politics & Government

Kampf Looking to Extend Natural Gas Service

"I have heard from many constituents that they would like to take advantage of natural gas service in their neighborhoods, but currently there are too many barriers to entry," Kampf said.

Have you wanted to take advantage of low natural gas prices but couldn't, because there's no gas line to your home?

One local lawmaker says he's heard from numerous constituents about just that.

Rep. Warren Kampf (R-157th) has introduced legislation that he says would make it easier for people to run natural gas lines to their homes.

“I have heard from many constituents that they would like to take advantage of natural gas service in their neighborhoods, but currently there are too many barriers to entry,” Kampf said. “This commonsense reform will make natural gas line extension projects more affordable to consumers without placing additional financial burdens on existing ratepayers.”

Kampf said it can cost about $20,000 to have natural gas service added to a home, and that that amount must be paid in full before the connection takes place. He said his legislation, House Bill 2393, would allow extend the payment terms.

The legislation has been referred to the House Consumer Affairs Committee.

“The availability of low-cost natural gas supply has increased the demand for gas distribution line extensions among residential consumers,” Kampf said.  “My legislation will require natural gas utilities to file a plan with the Public Utility Commission proposing a pilot or permanent program to economically extend natural gas distribution service to unserved and underserved areas of the Commonwealth.  The plan filed by each natural gas distribution company must contain a program to enhance the affordability of natural gas line extensions to consumers, including on-bill financing options.  We need to determine if customer contributions are required for these projects, and also have a plan for prioritizing gas line extension projects. I am hopeful  the House will take up my legislation in the near future so we can enact this commonsense, bipartisan-supported plan.”

Would you run a natural gas line to your home if you could?


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