Need Help? Call the Commission!
What Consumers are Saying...
"It was a pleasure to speak with your representative. He was friendly, factual, addressed all issues and followed through until they were resolved. Thank you."
|
UTC Contacts
1-888-333-WUTC (9882)
Mar. 12, 9:30 am
Mar. 26, 9:30 am
April 9, 9:30 am |
|
|
|
Welcome!
Welcome to the Utilities and Transportation Commission (UTC) e-newsletter. If you have questions about UTC Connections, please e-mail consumer@utc.wa.gov.
The UTC works every day to protect consumers by ensuring that utility and transportation services are fairly priced, available, reliable and safe. This bi-monthly e-newsletter is intended to provide you with current information about regulated industries, current issues and topics that impact you.
Thank you. |
|
UTC Welcomes New Chairman, Jeff Goltz
 Governor Gregorie visited the commission Feb. 3, to introduce staff to newly appointed commission chairman, Jeff Goltz.
"I have no doubt that Jeff has the leadership and strong ethical background that is required to successfully manage this dynamic and complex agency," said Gregoire. "Jeff brings an incredible passion for public service and constructive approach to any challenge. I look forward to working with him in this important role." Coming from the Attorney General's Office, Jeff has worked not only in the Ecology Division as an Assistant Attorney General and as Division Chief, but also in the Revenue Division and in the Utilities and Transportation Division, where he served as Division Chief for 11 years.
|
High Heating Bills - Where to Turn
An unusually cold and snowy winter has left Washington residents facing higher than normal heating bills. As these bills begin to fill mailboxes across the state, the commission wants to remind you help is out there. Be sure to contact your utility company, inform them that you are in need of assistance and attempt to make payment arrangements immediately.
If you are unable to make arrangements with the company after speaking with a supervisor. Please call the commission's Consumer Protection Division at 1-888-333-WUTC (9882).
|
Protecting Consumers
In 2008, the commission's Consumer Protection Division saved Washington residents a total of $392,793!
Special thanks to the Consumer Protection Specialists who handle complaints, record violations, and help consumers recover money they are owed. March 1-7 is National Consumer Protection Week! The UTC and Attorney General's office will be hosting information fairs around the state to educate consumers on their rights and how to avoid scams, to find an event near you, click here. |
Commission Legislative Bills
The Washington State Legislature is in session, and there are  two new bills aimed at further protecting consumers.
HB 1843: Improve Motor Vehicle Safety and Accountability
This bill increases consumer protection by requiring UTC-regulated motor vehicles to obtain a United States Department of Transportation (USDOT) number. This would allow Washington State Patrol (WSP) to place any UTC-regulated commercial vehicle out of service if found to be unsafe to operate on roadways or if they are found in violation of a commission order. In addition, WSP would have the authority to penalize UTC-regulated companies found in violation of in-state safety requirements. The bill also requires a carrier's safety information to be recorded into a national database, giving state and federal authorities access to a more complete safety history.
This bill addresses the increase in in-state residential moving companies operating illegally, without a UTC permit.This legislation would ban movers from advertising their services without first obtaining a valid Washington permit. Under this bill, the UTC will be able to immediately take action against an illegal moving company.
|
|
Garbage Pickup - Storm Guidelines
Winter weather can create hazardous conditions for garbage companies attempting to conduct regularly scheduled pickups. A garbage truck can weigh up to 25 tons and the companies don't want to take a chance endangering lives and property on icy roads. Extremely wet conditions may also affect the stability of some roads and may affect service. In flood situations, it may become unsafe to serve customers.
When there is a missed pickup due to inclement weather or road conditions, trash will be picked up on the next available date or the next regularly scheduled pick up day, depending on weather conditions. The company is not obligated to give a credit since the accumulated trash will be picked up as soon as service can safely resume.
If you have an unresolved complaint with your regulated garbage company, please call the commission at 1-888-333-WUTC (9882) or visit www.utc.wa.gov/consumer/garbage. |
State Seeks Enforcement Action Against All My Sons Moving Company
The commission has filed an enforcement petition against All My Sons Moving and Storage, asking Thurston County Superior Court to enforce a November 2008 UTC order that cancelled the company's permit to operate an in-state moving business.
The company's permit was cancelled based on UTC staff investigations that revealed the moving company repeatedly overcharged customers, inaccurately estimated costs of customers' moves and mishandled damage claims.
The company allegedly continues to advertise and operate illegally, leaving customers who hire the illegal mover with little recourse to recoup losses or damages.
Before you move, confirm that the company you hire is permitted by the UTC; require the company to provide you a written estimate and accurate inventory; and sign a bill of lading before the truck leaves with your belongings and again upon delivery.
For more moving tips or to confirm a company is permitted, visit http://www.utc.wa.gov/consumer/movingtips.
|
What Can the UTC Do For You? 
Do you need help with:
| |
|
