HB 5187
Relating to the members of the Public Service Commission
Take action
Record your position on this measure.
Sign in to record your position, submit testimony, or contact your legislator.
Sign in to take action- Introduced
- Passed House of Delegates
- Passed Senate
- To Governor
- Became Law
Bill overview
This bill proposes significant changes to the Public Service Commission (PSC) in West Virginia. It aims to elect PSC members through non-partisan elections, establish a process for removing members and employees for misconduct, and increase discount rates for low-income utility customers. The bill also seeks to improve public engagement in utility rate cases by requiring electronic access to hearings and establishing a transparent process for customer feedback and rate increases.
Key provisions
- PSC members will be elected non-partisanly through statewide elections.
- A staggered appointment system will be implemented for initial elections.
- A judicial process will be established for removing Commission members and employees.
- Customers will have access to electronic and paper copies of utility rate increase information.
- A process will be created for customers to provide feedback and comment on proposed or enacted utility rate increases.
- A 10% discount rate will be increased for certain low-income utility customers.
- The annual salary for commissioners will be adjusted, with a higher amount for the chairman.
- Public hearings will be streamed online, and remote participation will be allowed.
Who is affected
- West Virginia residents
- Public Service Commission members and employees
- Utility customers
- Low-income residents
- Consumers of electricity and gas
Notable changes
Arguments in favor
Reasons to support this legislation.
No arguments in favor have been submitted.
Submit yoursArguments opposed
Reasons to oppose this legislation.
No arguments opposed have been submitted.
Submit yours