SB 535
Imposing one-year moratorium on approval of certain public utility rate increases
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Sign in to take action- Introduced
- Passed Senate
- Passed House of Delegates
- To Governor
- Became Law
Bill overview
This bill proposes a one-year moratorium on the Public Service Commission’s approval of rate increases for electric, natural gas, and water utilities in West Virginia. It mandates a comprehensive study by the commission to examine factors contributing to rising utility costs, including cost structures, ratemaking policies, and fuel costs. The goal is to identify methods and means to reduce utility rates for customers across the state.
Key provisions
- Imposes a one-year moratorium on utility rate increases starting July 1, 2026.
- Requires the Public Service Commission to conduct a comprehensive study on reducing utility rates.
- The study must examine utility cost structures, ratemaking policies, fuel costs, and infrastructure investments.
- The commission is permitted to continue certain activities during the moratorium, such as hearings and audits.
- The study must assess the impact of rate increases on different customer groups, including low-income and senior citizens.
- The commission is required to submit a report to the Governor, Senate President, and House of Delegates Speaker by December 1, 2026, detailing its findings and recommendations.
- Any rate increases approved during the moratorium are void.
- Exemptions are provided for rate decreases, refunds, and rate increases necessary to comply with federal mandates.
Who is affected
- Residential customers
- Commercial customers
- Industrial customers
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