The General Assembly Raised Bill No. 1194 aims to amend the regulation of public utilities by revising the powers and responsibilities of the Public Utilities Regulatory Authority (PURA). The bill proposes to replace the term "directors" with "utility commissioners" and makes corresponding changes to the language throughout the statute to reflect this shift. Additionally, it clarifies that the authority can delegate its powers to utility commissioners or hearing officers, who are empowered to summon witnesses and examine relevant documents related to public service companies. The bill also stipulates that witnesses who comply with summonses, despite objections based on potential self-incrimination, will not face prosecution for their testimony.

The bill further specifies that the fees for summoned witnesses will align with those in the Superior Court, and the state will cover these expenses as authorized by statute. It allows for the designation of hearing officers from the authority's technical staff or contracted members of the Connecticut Bar to conduct hearings, although only utility commissioners can grant immunity from prosecution to witnesses. The changes are set to take effect on October 1, 2025, and aim to enhance the operational efficiency and clarity of the regulatory framework governing public utilities in Connecticut.