Legal Question in Credit and Debt Law in Georgia
Can a power companie in the state of georgia Legaly disconnect the power to a home that has a oxygen patient residing there? we took the paper work up there from the hospital .we were not late until my husband got put on oxygen and we trying to keep it up the best we can but is it legal for them to do that
2 Answers from Attorneys
Generally they can. The state PSC may have ideas to assist you. Call them.
Yes, they probably can. I don't know the name of the power company, but see if they have some kind of hardship program which you can apply for. Here is some helpful information I found:
NOTE: These policies may not apply to all utilities in this state. In general, municipal utilities and rural electric cooperatives are not regulated and the policies do not apply to them.
Check with your PUC/PSC contacts and/ or websites below to see if the state policy applies to your utility and read the Consumer FAQs or Bill of Rights for more information. If you have a dispute with your utility, you should try and resolve it with the utility first before calling your PUC/PSC.
State Georgia
Date-based yes
Protection Dates November 15 - March 15 and summer months
Temperature-based yes
Temperature 32� F and below or 98� and above
Seasonal Policy Total ban between November 15 and March 15 when the forecasted low temperature for a 24 hour period beginning at 8:00 A.M. on the date of the proposed disconnection is below 32 degrees. No disconnect if illness would be aggravated, need statement from doctor. Residential service will not be disconnected if at 8 A.M. on the scheduled disconnection day, a National Weather Service Heat Advisory or Excessive Heat Warning is in effect for the county of the scheduled disconnection.
Other Delay disconnect for 30 days with medical certification. If life support equipment is needed a "load limiter" is installed that allows enough electricity to run the equipment. Cannot disconnect unless a bill is at least 45 days overdue and proper notification has been sent.
Deferred Payments No disconnect during protection dates if customer agrees and adheres to payment plan.
PUC/PSC Contacts Consumer line: 404-656-4501or 800-282-5813
Email: [email protected]
Complaint form http://www.psc.state.ga.us