Oklahoma House Bill HB2565

Oklahoma 2023 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/6/23
• Refer: 2/7/23

Caption

Public utilities; requiring submission of certain plans; submission prior to rate increase; effective date.

Impact

If enacted, HB2565 would change the process by which public utilities can request rate increases. By requiring these entities to submit detailed plans to the Corporation Commission before rate hikes can take effect, the bill aims to enhance accountability and ensure that utilities are proactively managing potential issues that could affect service reliability. This could lead to improved safety and service quality for consumers, as utilities would be compelled to have comprehensive plans reflecting their operational strategies and needs.

Summary

House Bill 2565, introduced in the Oklahoma legislature, mandates that public utilities regulated by the Corporation Commission must submit annual emergency update plans and maintenance plans by December 1 each year. This submission is required prior to the effectiveness of any requested rate increase for that year. The act emphasizes the importance of planning and preparedness for utilities, ensuring that they have clear strategies in place for emergencies and maintenance before asking for higher rates from consumers.

Contention

The bill may face scrutiny regarding its impact on the operational flexibility of utilities. Proponents of HB2565 argue that having mandatory plans would force utilities to prioritize long-term maintenance and emergency preparedness, potentially reducing outages and enhancing public safety. However, critics may express concerns that the added administrative burden could hinder the rapid response capabilities of public utilities, particularly in times of unexpected crises. The effectiveness of the Corporation Commission in evaluating these plans might also be a point of contention among stakeholders.