NEW BETHLEHEM \u2013 New Bethlehem residents are being reminded to \u201cexercise caution\u201d when approached by door-to-door solicitors, including individuals claiming to represent utility or energy companies, according to a press released issued by borough officials on Tuesday.<\/p>\n
\u201cWhile Pennsylvania law permits licensed third-party utility suppliers to conduct door-to-door marketing, such activity is governed by strict consumer protection regulations and disclosure requirements,\u201d noted the press release, which was issued by Mayor Gordon Barrows and the borough council. \u201cConsumers generally have a three-business-day right to rescind most door-to-door sales agreements. However, borough officials want residents to be aware that requests to view a utility bill at the door are commonly used for supplier switching and, in some cases, may lead to unauthorized account changes.\u201d<\/p>\n
New Bethlehem Borough requires that all door-to-door solicitors obtain a valid borough-issued permit and prominently display badges\/ID before engaging residents. Solicitation without a permit is a violation of local ordinance.<\/p>\n
Residents are encouraged to:<\/p>\n
\u2022 Never provide a copy of your utility bill or account information to an unknown individual at your door.<\/p>\n
\u2022 Ask to see a valid borough solicitation permit before engaging with any door-to-door representative.<\/p>\n
\u2022 Carefully review any document before signing, and understand that most door-to-door agreements include a three-business-day right of cancellation.<\/p>\n
\u2022 Contact your utility company directly if your provider has been changed without your authorization.<\/p>\n
\u2022 Immediately contact the Southern Clarion County Regional Police Department at (814) 275-1180 or police@SCCRPD.com<\/a> if anyone is soliciting without a permit or if you feel pressured or uncomfortable.<\/p>\n Consumers who believe they have experienced deceptive marketing practices may contact the Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission Consumer Hotline at 1-800-692-7380 for assistance or to file a complaint.<\/p>\n