Only three legislatures nationwide — California, New York and Washington, D.C. — pay lawmakers more than Pennsylvania.

And it’s one of only 10 year-round legislatures in the country.

But despite the generous compensation and the long session length, lawmakers sometimes fail to get the job done — leaving their constituents hanging.

Such was the case at the end of this session, when a popular, beneficial law was left to expire. Lawmakers left Harrisburg without reauthorizing Chapter 14, a law that regulated utility company shut-offs.

Chapter 14, which first passed in 2004, prevented utility companies from shutting off low-income customers during the winter while also setting up a method to make sure the companies were repaid what they’re owed.

As an article from Spotlight PA in the Monday, Dec. 9, edition of the Butler Eagle noted, the fact the law will lapse likely won’t lead to a surge in shut-offs this winter, because the Public Utility Commission, which regulates energy companies, has set up its own guidelines, but it is a big change from 10 years ago, when the law was reauthorized unanimously.

And consumer advocates aren’t the only ones disappointed in the failure of legislators to act on this important bill. Because it also ensures utility companies are repaid, trade groups also were pushing for the reauthorization.

Spotlight PA laid out what will happen now.

“When the law expires on Dec. 31, the PUC — an independent five-member board appointed by the governor to oversee everything from telecommunications to taxis — will have the discretion to set up individual repayment plans when petitioned,” the story explained.

It’s good news for residents that the PUC can prevent shut-offs, but it’s a sign of the disrespect legislators have for their constituents that they left yet another thing undone before the end of the session.

— JK