This bill seeks to amend the Code of West Virginia by limiting the jurisdiction of the Public Service Commission (PSC) regarding utilities. Specifically, it stipulates that the PSC's authority will be confined to holding hearings on rate adjustment requests from all utilities and issuing recommendations to the Legislature. Additionally, the bill establishes that any proposed rate increases can be vetoed by the Legislature, thereby enhancing legislative oversight over utility rate adjustments.

The bill also includes provisions that require the PSC to forward all rate adjustment recommendations to the Legislature, ensuring that the legislative body has a direct role in the approval process. This shift aims to provide greater accountability and transparency in utility regulation, as well as to protect consumers from potential rate increases deemed unjust or unreasonable by the Legislature. Overall, the proposed changes reflect a significant restructuring of the regulatory framework governing utilities in West Virginia.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 24-1-1