If this bill were to become law, it would update current statutes by amending the definition of "represent the interests of" within the context of the Residential Utility Consumer Office (RUCO). The new definition would clarify that this term means advocating for the safest and most reliable utility service achievable at the lowest retail rate possible, replacing the previous focus solely on the lowest retail electric rate.
Additionally, the bill would make a technical change by removing the phrase "except a member-owned nonprofit cooperative corporation" from the definition of "public service corporation." This change aims to streamline the language in the statute while ensuring that the focus remains on consumer advocacy in utility services. Overall, these updates are intended to enhance the effectiveness of RUCO in representing residential utility consumers.
Statutes affected: Introduced Version: 40-461
Senate Engrossed Version: 40-461