This bill seeks to modernize Idaho's public utilities regulations by repealing numerous outdated sections of the Idaho Code that pertain to the transportation of persons and property, street railroads, express corporations, and air carriers. Specifically, it repeals Sections 61-106, 61-107, 61-108, 61-109, 61-112, 61-304, 61-309, 61-310, 61-311, 61-312, 61-315A, 61-322, and 61-326. The bill also amends various sections, including 61-201, 61-208, 61-305, 61-307, 61-308, 61-313, 61-314, 61-402, 61-502, and 61-503, to update provisions related to the Idaho Public Utilities Commission, including office hours, rate schedules, and the commission's authority to investigate and set rates.

In addition to these changes, the bill introduces a universal service fund to assist eligible telecommunications carriers in providing services at reasonable rates, detailing the methodology for financial assistance collection and distribution. It replaces the terms "fares" and "tolls" with "rentals" concerning interstate rates and mandates public utilities to justify any rate increases or classification changes. The bill also emphasizes the importance of proper accounting for payments made by public utilities during appeals and ensures prompt payment of damages and overcharges. An emergency declaration is included, with the act set to take effect on July 1, 2025.

Statutes affected:
Bill Text: 61-106, 61-107, 61-108, 61-109, 61-112, 61-201, 61-208, 61-304, 61-305, 61-307, 61-308, 61-309, 61-310, 61-311, 61-312, 61-313, 61-314, 61-315A, 61-322, 61-326, 61-402, 61-502, 61-503, 61-504, 61-506, 61-530, 61-622, 61-637, 61-638, 61-1003, 61-1005, 62-610F, 62-623