Connecticut House Bill HB05631

Connecticut 2023 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/18/23
• Refer: 1/18/23

Caption

An Act Concerning Legislative Approval For Rate Increases Of Electricity And Natural Gas.

Impact

If enacted, HB05631 will significantly alter the processes by which utility rate increases are approved. Currently, rate adjustments can be made by regulatory authorities with minimal legislative involvement. This bill would require a democratic process involving both the House and Senate, potentially leading to more comprehensive debates surrounding rate increases. Proponents of the bill argue that this will lead to fairer utility prices for consumers, while opponents may express concerns about potential delays in necessary rate adjustments due to the legislative voting process.

Summary

House Bill 05631 proposes that any increases in electricity and natural gas rates approved by the Public Utilities Regulatory Authority (PURA) require a legislative vote from both chambers of the General Assembly. The intent of the bill is to grant the legislature more oversight and control over utility rate changes, ensuring that such increases are subject to greater scrutiny and deliberation. This legislative change aims to address public concerns regarding rising utility costs and the transparency of decision-making processes regarding rate adjustments.

Contention

Some notable points of contention surrounding HB05631 include debates on the balance between regulatory autonomy and legislative oversight. Supporters claim that requiring legislative approval is essential for protecting consumers from unnecessarily high rate increases, while critics argue that it could bureaucratize the process and prevent timely adjustments that are necessary for the sustainability of utility services. Additionally, there may be concerns about the implications of such legislative involvement on the operational efficacy of the Public Utilities Regulatory Authority.