Connecticut House Bill HB06411

Connecticut 2021 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/10/21
• Refer: 2/10/21

Caption

An Act Moving The Office Of Consumer Counsel Within The Office Of The Attorney General.

Impact

The proposed relocation is significant as it is designed to enable more cohesive oversight and advocacy for consumer rights in Connecticut. By placing the Office of Consumer Counsel within the Attorney General's office, it is expected that consumers will have a stronger voice in critical regulatory discussions. This integration is also perceived as a means to streamline processes, potentially improving responsiveness to consumer needs and concerns regarding service providers.

Summary

House Bill 06411, also known as the Act Moving The Office Of Consumer Counsel Within The Office Of The Attorney General, proposes to relocate the Office of Consumer Counsel under the jurisdiction of the Attorney General. This adjustment is aimed at enhancing the consumer advocacy role within the state's regulation of public service entities, including electric suppliers and telecommunications providers. The bill stipulates that the Office of Consumer Counsel will act as a representative of consumer interests in regulatory or judicial proceedings concerning matters of public services, including rates and service quality.

Contention

However, there are points of contention surrounding this bill. While proponents argue that this move will enhance consumer advocacy and protection, some critics express that it may dilute the independence of the Office of Consumer Counsel, which previously functioned independently within the Department of Energy and Environmental Protection. Concerns have been raised regarding the potential conflicts of interest and the ability of the Office to effectively represent consumer interests when it operates under the broader authority of the Attorney General.