This bill mandates that the Governor's annual budget message includes a detailed report on the revenues and expenditures associated with the societal benefits charge. Specifically, it requires the report to present information in a columnar format for the five most recently completed fiscal years and the current fiscal year. The report must cover the total revenue collected from the societal benefits charge, allocations for various energy programs, and expenditures from the Universal Services Fund and the Plug-in Electric Vehicle Incentive Fund. Additionally, it will detail the revenues retained by each electric and gas public utility from the societal benefits charge.

The intent of this legislation is to enhance transparency regarding the financial aspects of the societal benefits charge, which is included in customer bills for electricity and natural gas services. The bill emphasizes the need for accountability in how these funds are utilized, particularly for energy efficiency programs, renewable energy initiatives, and consumer assistance programs. The report will also provide insights into the rates set by each utility for the societal benefits charge, ensuring that stakeholders have access to comprehensive financial data related to these charges.