This bill amends and reenacts section 49-04-07 of the North Dakota Century Code, which addresses the prohibition of unreasonable preferences or advantages by public utilities. The revised language clarifies that no public utility may provide undue or unreasonable preference to any specific person, company, or locality, nor may they subject any of these entities to undue prejudice or disadvantage. Additionally, the bill emphasizes that public utilities cannot charge different rates for similar services under comparable circumstances, unless such arrangements are reasonable and approved by the relevant commission.

Furthermore, the bill repeals sections 49-04-08, 49-04-09, and 49-04-10, which previously regulated common carriers concerning permissible discrimination, long and short hauls, and freight pooling. This repeal indicates a shift in regulatory focus, streamlining the legal framework governing public utilities and potentially simplifying compliance for these entities.

Statutes affected:
INTRODUCED: 49-04-07
PREFILED: 49-04-07