The bill H.279, introduced by Representatives Masland, Eastes, Mrowicki, and Olson, mandates the Public Utility Commission (PUC) to establish rules for the equitable sharing of costs associated with electric grid upgrades among ratepayers. Specifically, the PUC is required to adopt standards and procedures by July 1, 2026, to ensure that costs for improvements or upgrades within a utility's service territory are distributed fairly among all ratepayers. Additionally, by July 1, 2031, the PUC must implement rules for sharing costs of upgrades made outside a utility's service territory, ensuring fairness across all ratepayers in the state.

The bill also stipulates that it will take effect on July 1, 2025. This legislation aims to promote fairness in the financial responsibilities of electric grid enhancements, ultimately benefiting consumers by ensuring that costs are not disproportionately borne by any single group of ratepayers.