Consumer protections are a priority at the Florida Public Service Commission (PSC), and each spring the PSC reinforces this by celebrating National Consumer Protection Week (NCPW). This year, during NCPW’s 20th anniversary, March 4-10, the PSC will help consumers avoid scams and fraud, conserve water and energy, and manage utility bills.
“The PSC has been protecting consumers for more than 130 years,” said PSC Chairman Art Graham. “A week devoted to consumer protections is always a good thing, but I encourage consumers needing utility information or assistance to call the PSC at 800-342-3552 any time of the year!”
Here are three excellent ways the PSC keeps consumers informed year-round:
- Awareness/Education
The PSC coordinates or participates in community events to promote energy efficiency, water conservation, and scam prevention education. Each month, we also plan events to promote Lifeline Assistance, a federal program designed to make telecommunications/broadband services more affordable for low-income households.
- Free Resources
The PSC has many educational brochures to help consumers save energy, conserve water, avoid utility-related scams, and learn about Lifeline and other relevant topics. Brochures may be accessed and printed directly from the website, ordered free online, or requested by mail or phone (800-342-3552). Consumers can also learn about docketed or emerging utility issues by visiting floridapsc.com.
- Hearings, Meetings, and Workshops
Consumers can learn about the PSC and its proceedings by attending a hearing, meeting, or workshop in Tallahassee, or a customer hearing or meeting held throughout the state. Public customer meetings provide an inclusive process, allowing consumers to share their views with Commissioners. The PSC also live streams all Tallahassee meetings, as well as off-site meetings attended by two or more Commissioners.
During NCPW, the PSC will make presentations to consumers in Hillsborough, Washington, and Leon Counties. Presentation locations and times can be found on the PSC website, floridapsc.com.
For more information about NCPW, sponsored by the Federal Trade Commission and other partners, visit the official 2018 NCPW website.
