The bill H.446, introduced by Representative Durfee, aims to reform the way municipal corporations establish water and sewer service rates. It mandates that these rates be based on the actual cost of supplying services, ensuring that all users within a service area are charged equally. Additionally, the bill introduces an appeal process for ratepayers and property owners who feel they are being charged disproportionately. The proposed amendments to current law include specific provisions that require municipal corporations to set rates that do not exceed the actual costs and allow ratepayers to appeal these rates to the Public Utility Commission within 90 days of their establishment.

Furthermore, the bill includes provisions for sewer disposal charges, requiring that these also be based on actual costs and allowing property owners to appeal charges set by the commissioners. The amendments will supersede any conflicting local regulations that take effect before July 1, 2025, and the act itself is set to take effect on that date. This legislation aims to create a fairer and more transparent system for water and sewer service rates across municipalities.

Statutes affected:
As Introduced: 24-3311, 24-3616