Electricity Reliability Bill Is Formally Announced

ANNAPOLIS, Md. (AP) -- Gov. Martin O'Malley and Maryland lawmakers have formally announced legislation to put utility reliability standards into the law. 

The measure, which will be introduced Thursday, will require the Public Service Commission to adopt enhanced reliability standards by July 2012. The bill also will allow the PSC to fine utilities for poor performance. Fines would be directed back to affected ratepayers. 

The legislation is being sponsored by Delegate Brian Feldman, D-Montgomery, and Sen. Thomas "Mac" Middleton, D-Charles. 

Pepco, a utility that serves customers in Washington, and Prince George's and Montgomery counties, has been widely criticized for long delays restoring power to thousands of customers. 

(Copyright 2011 by The Associated Press.  All Rights Reserved.)