NH lawmakers take up veto of heating fuel bill

CONCORD, N.H. (AP) - New Hampshire lawmakers will vote Wednesday whether to override Gov. John Lynch's veto of a bill that shortens the time fuel dealers have to offer pre-buy contracts.

The bill would amend a two-year-old law meant to protect consumers who buy their heating fuel early. The law requires dealers to demonstrate they can fulfill their pre-buy contracts and prohibits dealers from offering the contracts before Jan. 1 for the 12-month heating season beginning May 1.

The bill would prohibit dealers from offering the contracts before May 1.

Lynch questioned whether the shorter window would affect dealers' ability to get the best price. He suggested that lawmakers take another look to see if further consumer protections are warranted.