The bill establishes a cap on the additional fees that customers of a board of public utilities can be charged for sewer, water, and electric services, limiting these charges to no more than 15% of the combined utility service charges. It amends existing statutes to clarify that the board of public utilities may bill and collect sewer service charges at the direction of the city’s governing body, rather than being mandated to do so. Additionally, the bill modifies the language regarding the fixing of reasonable rates for water and electricity, ensuring that the rates will secure sufficient income to cover operational costs, salaries, and bond obligations.

Furthermore, the bill repeals certain existing statutes related to the board of public utilities, specifically K.S.A. 13-1223a, 13-1227, and 13-1228, which may streamline the regulatory framework governing utility charges and operations. The changes aim to provide clearer guidelines for utility billing and ensure that customers are not overburdened by excessive fees while maintaining the financial integrity of the utility services. The act will take effect upon publication in the statute book.

Statutes affected:
As introduced: 13-1223a, 13-1227, 13-1228