South Dakota 2023 Regular Session

South Dakota Senate Bill SB11

Introduced
1/10/23  
Refer
1/10/23  
Report Pass
1/19/23  
Engrossed
1/23/23  
Refer
1/24/23  
Report Pass
1/30/23  
Enrolled
1/31/23  

Caption

Update the deposit threshold for actions related to general rate cases.

Impact

The impact of SB11 on state laws includes altering the financial requirements for utilities seeking to adjust their rates. By increasing the deposit amount allowable for general rate cases, the bill creates a more robust funding mechanism for the commission. This adjustment could enable the commission to better cover its regulatory costs and improve oversight of utility operations, as it may deter frivolous or ill-prepared filings by ensuring that only serious adjustments are proposed by utilities.

Summary

Senate Bill 11 aims to update the deposit threshold for actions related to general rate cases within the jurisdiction of the South Dakota Public Utilities Commission. This bill allows the commission to require a deposit of up to $500,000 when a public utility files for approval of a general rate case. The purpose of this legislation is to streamline the regulatory process and ensure that deposits reflect the scale of the actions being undertaken, facilitating more efficient management of rate cases.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding SB11 appears to be generally supportive among lawmakers, as evidenced by the significant majority voting in favor of the amendments to the bill, with 28 yeas and 5 nays. This support indicates a recognition of the importance of adequate funding for regulatory processes and the need to modernize the deposit structure to reflect current economic realities. However, some opposition may exist from stakeholders concerned about the financial burden these increased deposits could place on smaller utility companies or the potential for such costs to be passed on to consumers.

Contention

Despite the overall support for SB11, discussions around the bill may have included contention regarding how increased deposit thresholds could impact smaller utilities. Critics of the higher threshold might argue that it limits the ability of smaller providers to engage in rate adjustments and could inadvertently hinder competition in the utility market. Balancing the financial requirements with the operational capabilities of diverse utility companies remains a key point of discussion as the bill progresses through the legislative process.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

SD SB155

Reduce the amount of net receipts of unclaimed property deposited into the general fund.

SD SB46

Specify the funds into which certain boat fees are deposited.

SD SB438

Relating generally to WV Security for Public Deposits Act

SD HB1007

Prohibit use of the South Dakota public utilities commission gross receipts tax fund for reimbursement of costs incurred by the Public Utilities Commission.

SD SB35

Increase penalties for actions related to grain transactions.

SD HB3169

Relating to the operation and administration of the Texas Bullion Depository, to depository agents, to the appropriation of money from the fees, charges, penalties, and other amounts related to the depository and deposited to the general revenue fund for that purpose, and to the provision of a related ad valorem tax exemption.

SD HB1030

Update statutory and regulatory references pertaining to water pollution.

SD SB143

Raise the revenue threshold for a required audit of a water development district.

SD HB1175

Update references to the Governor, lieutenant governor, and other persons.

SD HB1284

Increase household income thresholds for a paraplegic tax reduction.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.