The bill amends sections 4905.02 and 4905.03 of the Revised Code to expand the definition of "public utility" to include resellers of public utility services, specifically targeting submetering companies. The new legal language specifies that a submetering company is defined as one that engages in the business of reselling or redistributing utility services such as electric, gas, sewer, sewage disposal, or water service, measured by submeters installed at individual service points within a building or facility. Additionally, the bill introduces a provision that exempts landlords, condominium associations, or property owners from being classified as public utilities when they provide submetered public utility service solely for the purpose of allocating and billing utility costs to tenants or owners, as long as it does not involve redistribution or resale of the service.

The bill also repeals existing sections 4905.02 and 4905.03, indicating a comprehensive update to the regulatory framework governing public utilities in Ohio. By including these new definitions and exemptions, the legislation aims to clarify the regulatory status of various entities involved in the provision of utility services, ensuring that those who merely allocate costs to tenants are not subjected to the same regulations as traditional public utilities.

Statutes affected:
As Introduced: 4905.02, 4905.03