The bill amends Minnesota Statutes 2024, section 216B.16, subdivision 12, to adjust the eligibility criteria for small natural gas utilities seeking exemption from regulation by the Minnesota Public Utilities Commission. Specifically, it raises the customer limit for municipalities to qualify for this exemption from 650 to 2,500 customers, while also allowing for a total of 5,000 customers when considering those served outside the municipality's corporate limits. The language clarifies that municipalities can file resolutions for exemptions, and the commission is required to grant these exemptions for the requested portions of a public utility's business.

Additionally, the bill introduces new definitions and requirements regarding the infrastructure of public utilities. It defines "system" as the physically connected infrastructure owned and operated by a public utility, which must not be connected to another system owned by the same utility. The bill also mandates that utilities submit their municipally approved rates to the commission annually and allows the commission to investigate complaints related to service outside of municipalities. The effective date of these changes is set for the day following final enactment.

Statutes affected:
Introduction: 216B.16