This bill establishes a maximum allowable increase for sewer service rates charged by counties, cities, and intergovernmental sewer services. Specifically, the increase is capped at the lower of 2% above the previous year's rates or the percentage increase in the consumer price index for the Midwest region. Additionally, any planned increases for debt repayment incurred before July 1, 2025, are excluded from these limits. If the proposed rate increases exceed the established limits, they will only take effect at the start of the next budget year, contingent upon voter approval in the next general election.

Furthermore, the bill mandates that if voters reject the proposed rate increases, any amounts collected that exceed the limits from the beginning of the current budget year until the election certification must be refunded by January 1 following the election. This ensures that rate increases are subject to public approval and provides a mechanism for refunding excess charges if the increases are not accepted by the electorate.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 331.465, 331.461, 358C.15, 384.84