This bill introduces a new section to RSA 374, specifically section 374:2-b, which prohibits public utilities from recovering certain costs through rates charged to customers. The bill explicitly disallows the recovery of costs associated with participation in contested proceedings before the Public Utilities Commission, including attorneys' fees, expert witness fees, and other related costs. Additionally, it prohibits the recovery of costs related to membership, dues, sponsorships, or contributions to business or industry trade associations, as well as advertising, marketing, or promotional costs unless deemed directly beneficial to ratepayers and necessary for utility service provision.

The bill is expected to have a positive fiscal impact by potentially reducing utility costs for state, county, and municipal customers, as utilities will not be able to pass on these specific costs to ratepayers. While the exact savings are indeterminable due to varying utility rate case costs, the Department of Energy suggests that the bill could lead to significant savings, as evidenced by a recent rate case that incurred approximately $2 million in outside legal and consultant costs. The bill is set to take effect on January 1, 2027.