2026 Regular Session
SB 48
Relating to powers and duties of PSC
In Committee
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- Passed Senate
- Passed House of Delegates
- To Governor
- Became Law
Bill overview
This bill modifies West Virginia’s Public Service Commission (PSC) regulations regarding utility rates. Specifically, it establishes a rule that any electric utility rate or fee increase not in effect by November 20 of a year cannot take effect until April 1 of the following year. The bill also clarifies procedures for rate changes, including notice requirements and the commission’s authority to investigate and adjust rates.
Key provisions
- Electric utility rate or fee increases must be in effect by November 20 of a year and cannot take effect until April 1 of the subsequent year.
- The PSC can enforce, originate, establish, change, and promulgate tariffs, rates, and schedules for public utilities, with exceptions for municipal power and water/sewer systems meeting specific criteria.
- Utilities must provide 30 days’ notice to the PSC and the public before changing rates.
- The PSC can suspend rate increases during hearings and require utilities to post bonds for potential refunds.
- The commission can audit utility management practices to ensure efficiency and sound management.
- The commission can investigate transactions between utilities and affiliates to ensure rates are just and reasonable.
- Publication requirements for rate changes include a Class II legal advertisement in a newspaper of general circulation.
- The PSC must render a decision on rate cases within three months.
Who is affected
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