From an insert included with the latest gas/electric bill:
Keep Metal Objects Away From Your Gas Meter
It is important to keep metal away from your gas meter. PSE&G uses metal pipes that are protected from corrosion by a small electrical current running through them. This makes the pipes stronger and more efficient. If attached to these pipes, metal objects (such as a dog's leash or an antenna) strip the corrosion protection and cause problems with the electricity running through the pipes. When pipes become damaged, they may not work as well, and we may need to fix them.
