Protection from Abuse Orders

IMPORTANT TO KNOW

If you currently have a valid Protection from Abuse Order (PFA), you have the following protections, regardless of your income:

  • Equitable Gas Company cannot shut off your gas service during the winter without PUC permission.
  • Depending on your income, a special payment arrangement may be available.
  • Service may not be terminated on a Friday.
  • You may not be held responsible for a bill in someone else's name.
  • You may not be required to pay a security deposit.  If you are required to pay a security deposit, you may be able to pay it over three payments.
  • You will receive additional notice prior to termination.    

What is a Protection from Abuse Order (PFA)?

A PFA is an order from the court that protects you and your children from your abuser.  It is a civil order that you can request on your own behalf against a family or household member who is abusing you.  Under the law, abuse is considered:

  • Bodily injury or rape.  Criminal charges do not need to be filed.
  • Reasonable fear of imminent serious bodily injury.
  • False imprisonment, including being kept or held for a short period of time or being grabbed by the arms and not allowed to move or leave.
  • Child abuse.
  • Stalking, including being followed or watched at home or at work, and/or being sent unwanted letters, gifts, email or telephone calls.

Domestic Violence Programs

Your local domestic violence hotline is available 24 hours a day, and all services are free and confidential.  For more information, look in the blue pages of your local phone book, or call 1-800-799-SAFE for contact information.

Note: In order to receive these protections from Equitable Gas Company, you will be required to provide Equitable Gas Company with a copy of your PFA Order.    However, Equitable Gas Company will not share this information with any third party.