Connecticut Senate Bill SB00862

Connecticut 2017 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/17/17
• Refer: 2/17/17

Caption

An Act Concerning The Public Utilities Regulatory Authority's Review Of Claims Arising From Contracts Previously Approved By The Authority.

Impact

This bill is expected to have significant ramifications on how contract disputes within the public utilities sector are resolved. By granting PURA the authority to adjudicate such claims, it brings about more centralized decision-making in disputes that may previously have been handled through the court system. The clarity and efficiency that this could instill may benefit public service companies by providing a more predictable framework for addressing contract claims, potentially reducing litigation costs and enabling quicker resolutions.

Summary

SB00862, An Act Concerning The Public Utilities Regulatory Authority's Review Of Claims Arising From Contracts Previously Approved By The Authority, introduces provisions for the Public Utilities Regulatory Authority (PURA) to review claims related to contracts that it has previously sanctioned. The bill seeks to amend Section 16-35 of the general statutes to empower PURA to handle contract disputes arising from service agreements involving public utility companies. It allows PURA to issue declaratory rulings or final decisions regarding such claims, enhancing its role in the oversight of utility contracts and potentially streamlining dispute resolution processes.

Contention

However, some points of contention may arise regarding the balance of power between regulatory authorities and the judiciary. Critics of the bill might argue that allowing a regulatory body to intervene in contractual disputes could hinder parties' rights to pursue claims in a traditional court setting. There could be concerns regarding the impartiality of PURE's rulings and the potential for overreach, as stakeholders seek assurance that consumers and smaller contractors are equally protected in this amended framework.