The bill, introduced by Representatives Dovilla and Fischer, seeks to amend the Revised Code concerning the regulation of natural gas companies and their rate plans, particularly for large load customers. It introduces new provisions that allow natural gas companies to propose alternative rate plans, including the use of fully or partially projected test periods for annual rider rate adjustments, which can extend up to two years from the application date. The Public Utilities Commission (PUC) is required to consider settlements in proceedings only if the public utility is a signatory party or has filed a notice of non-opposition. Additionally, the bill outlines specific criteria for settlements to be deemed reasonable and lawful, emphasizing serious bargaining and benefits to ratepayers.

Significant changes include the establishment of a new timeline for the PUC to act on applications, where if a final order is not issued within 365 days, the application is automatically deemed approved. The bill also clarifies the commission's authority in setting just and reasonable rates, mandates detailed financial reporting from public utilities, and protects customers from adverse effects related to service provisions. Furthermore, it repeals several existing sections of the Revised Code to streamline the regulatory framework, ensuring that non-large load customers are shielded from financial risks associated with infrastructure costs while allowing natural gas companies to recover compliance costs through approved alternative rate plans.

Statutes affected:
As Introduced: 4909.05, 4909.06, 4909.07, 4909.08, 4909.15, 4909.155, 4909.156, 4909.18, 4909.191, 4909.42, 4928.18, 4929.041