The proposed legislation, known as the 2025 Utility Company Billing Transparency Act, aims to enhance transparency and understanding of utility bills for consumers of electric and gas distribution companies with over 100,000 customers. The bill mandates that these companies conduct a ratepayer impact analysis (RIA) before implementing any rate changes, detailing the effects on different customer classes. Additionally, it requires utilities to provide monthly detailed descriptions of charges on bills, periodic explanations of significant rate changes, and annual reports outlining the costs contributing to rate adjustments.

The Public Utilities Commission will oversee compliance with these requirements and may impose fines or penalties for failures to provide accurate, timely, and clear explanations of rate changes. Furthermore, failure to include a clear explanation with a rate filing will result in the suspension of the rate filing until proper notifications and explanations are provided.

The bill also introduces a new section on revenue decoupling, which is intended to support the financial health of distribution companies while allowing for more efficient management of electric and gas distribution systems. Overall, the act seeks to foster greater transparency and accountability between utility companies and consumers by ensuring clear communication regarding costs and services.

Statutes affected:
5577: 39-1-27.7.1