Natural Gas - Strategic Infrastructure Development and Enhancement (Ratepayer Protection Act)

HB 419 requires natural gas companies in Maryland to submit detailed plans to the Public Service Commission for infrastructure replacement projects. These plans must include project descriptions, safety analyses, leak reduction potential, cost comparisons with alternatives (like leak repair), and 2-year advance notices to customers about upcoming construction. The bill allows gas companies to recover costs through a capped monthly surcharge - maximum $2 per residential account - with non-residential rates set at least equal but subject to the same cap. It prioritizes projects based on public safety risk and cost-effectiveness, excluding projects that connect to new customers or increase company revenue. The law directly affects gas companies (requiring new filings) and ratepayers (via the surcharge), while ensuring transparency for customers near construction sites.