Georgia House Bill HB1220

Georgia 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/9/24
• Report Pass: 2/21/24

Caption

Public Service Commission; subject certain companies providing water service to regulation by the commission

Impact

If enacted, HB 1220 would significantly shift the regulatory landscape for water and waste-water service providers in Georgia. The control and jurisdiction granted to the PSC would mean enhanced oversight, ensuring that customers receive fair pricing and quality service from providers. This amendment could promote accountability within the sector, especially for larger utility companies that may impact a significant number of residents. Moreover, it seeks to clarify the limitations on regulation by excluding state entities or specific political subdivisions from the PSC's jurisdiction, potentially preserving certain local governance limits.

Summary

House Bill 1220 proposes amendments to the Official Code of Georgia Annotated, specifically focusing on the jurisdiction, powers, and duties of the Public Service Commission (PSC). The bill aims to extend oversight to companies providing water or waste-water services in the state to those with 1,000 or more customer service connections. By doing this, the PSC will gain the authority to regulate rates and resolve customer complaints, effectively increasing consumer protections in this sector.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding the bill appears to lean towards support for increased regulation of utility companies, highlighting a commitment to consumer rights and service quality. Supporters argue that the bill represents a crucial step in protecting consumers from potential exploitation by larger utility companies, while also ensuring that customer complaints are properly addressed. However, there may be concerns from some stakeholders regarding the implications of added regulatory oversight on the operational flexibility of utility companies.

Contention

One notable point of contention arises from the bill's impact on the existing regulatory framework. Opponents may argue that the expansion of PSC authority could lead to overregulation, which might stifle innovation or result in unintended consequences for utility providers. Additionally, discussions surrounding the provisions and exemptions for specific entities suggest that varying perspectives exist regarding the balance of regulatory control and local governance, highlighting the complexity of public utility management in the state.