Public Service Commission of Maryland

The Public Service Commission was established in 1910 to regulate public utilities and transportation companies doing business in Maryland (Chapter 180, Acts of 1910). Initially composed of three members, the commission currently consists of five members appointed by the governor for five-year terms. One serves as chairman of the commission, and an attorney is appointed to function as general counsel (Code 1957, Article 78).

The Public Service Commission maintains jurisdiction over all gas, electric, steam heating, telephone, water, and sewage disposal companies in the State. This authority includes setting utility rates based on the reasonableness of proposed rates, reviewing plans of service, inspecting equipment, auditing financial records, and enforcing established rules and regulations in order to provide quality service to the public. While maintaining its basic purpose, the commission also works to incorporate increases in technology associated with transportation, utilities, and telecommunication within its supervision.

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