This bill amends the existing law governing public utilities in Michigan, specifically focusing on electric utilities. It introduces a new requirement for each electric utility to conduct an independent engineering audit of their distribution systems every five years, starting by March 1, 2027. The audit aims to assess the infrastructure's condition, emergency preparedness, storm restoration, and overall system maintenance, with the goal of improving grid reliability and safety. The findings from these audits will be reported to the relevant legislative committees, and the costs of the audits will be borne by the electric utilities.

Additionally, the bill modifies existing provisions related to worker transition programs in the event of ownership changes within electric utilities. It mandates that acquiring entities must offer employment to existing nonsupervisory employees at comparable wages and benefits for at least 30 months post-transfer. The bill also emphasizes the establishment of service quality and reliability standards by the commission, which must consider various factors such as safety and local geography. The commission is tasked with analyzing annual reports from utilities to ensure compliance with these standards and may impose financial penalties for non-compliance.

Statutes affected:
House Introduced Bill: 460.10