Maryland lawmakers fight energy measure

(03.26.06) —

ANNAPOLIS, Md. (AP) -- Maryland lawmakers are seeking to delay the upcoming merger of Constellation Energy Group and FPL Group Incorporated. Constellation says a lawsuit is possible if the legislature tries to intervene with what the company calls an intrusive measure. The debate over whether to delay the merger between Constellation and FPL Group, parent company of Florida Power and Light, is the latest maneuver in the State House as lawmakers look for ways to cushion double-digit rate increases expected across much of Maryland when rate caps expire later this year. The bill doesn't address rate hikes specifically, but it would give the General Assembly more say over the workings of Constellation. The House voted to give preliminary approval to the bill Saturday, with final approval possible next week. The measure would require the General Assembly, not just the utility-regulating Public Service Commission, to sign off on a utility merger.
 

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