ME LD1080

Public utilities are prohibited from requiring deposits from residential service applicants based solely on the applicant's income

Utilities may only require deposits from residential customers with proof the customer is a credit risk or likely to damage utility property, and must provide that proof upon request

"Applicant" is defined as a person applying for utility service who has not been a customer of that utility within the prior 30 calendar days

Lack of previous experience with the utility cannot be used as proof of credit risk or potential property damage

Public Utilities Commission must initiate rulemaking within 30 days of the Act's effective date to implement these requirements