In an effort to provide relief to Maine residents struggling with high utility costs, state lawmakers have passed a series of reforms to the public utility laws. The changes, which were signed into law yesterday by Governor Amanda Collins, are aimed at promoting competition among utility providers and increasing transparency in pricing for consumers.One of the key provisions of the new legislation is the implementation of a pilot program that will allow residents to choose their own electricity provider, rather than being limited to a single utility company. This move is expected to lower costs for consumers by fostering competition in the market and encouraging providers to offer more competitive rates.Additionally, the reforms address concerns about the lack of transparency in utility pricing by requiring companies to provide detailed breakdowns of costs on consumers' bills. This will allow residents to better understand how their utility charges are calculated and make informed decisions about their energy usage.In a statement, Governor Collins emphasized the importance of these reforms in providing relief to Maine residents struggling with high utility costs. "These changes are designed to promote competition, increase transparency, and ultimately lower costs for consumers," she said. "We are committed to ensuring that all Maine residents have access to affordable and reliable utility services."The reforms have been met with mixed reactions from utility companies, with some expressing concerns about the impact on their bottom line. However, supporters argue that the changes are necessary to protect consumers and create a more competitive and fair marketplace.Overall, the new public utility law reforms in Maine are expected to have a positive impact on residents by lowering costs and increasing transparency in pricing. As the pilot program is rolled out and consumers begin to see the benefits of increased competition, many are hopeful that these changes will lead to a brighter future for Maine residents struggling with high utility costs.