The bill HB 1262-FN amends existing laws governing home heating oil, kerosene, and propane contracts to enhance consumer protections and transparency. Key provisions include mandatory written contracts that clearly outline terms such as total payment, gallons to be delivered, price per gallon, and any associated fees. Dealers are also required to provide contact information for themselves and the New Hampshire Department of Justice consumer protection hotline. Additionally, the bill introduces new protections for prepaid contracts, allowing consumers to receive reimbursement for undelivered fuel and prorated fees within 30 days after contract termination. Dealers must secure a commitment for a significant portion of fuel at a fixed price or maintain a surety bond before entering into prepaid contracts, and they must register their intent to offer such contracts with the Secretary of State annually. Furthermore, the bill establishes new regulations for dealers, including the requirement to file an annual compliance report with the Secretary of State and to remove or transfer dealer-owned tanks within 30 days of consumer notification. It prohibits dealers from charging rental fees for tanks owned by others and mandates that refunds for remaining propane be issued in cash rather than as account credits. The bill also clarifies that non-compliance with these provisions constitutes an unfair or deceptive act under RSA 358-A. The legislation includes provisions that establish clearer guidelines for the sale and contract terms of home heating oil and propane while removing outdated language that may have caused confusion in enforcement. The act will take effect 60 days after passage, with an indeterminable fiscal impact on state and local governments.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 339:79
As Amended by the House: 339:79
As Amended by the Senate: 339:79, 339:78
Version adopted by both bodies: 339:79, 339:78
HB1262 text: 339:79