Pennsylvania 2023-2024 Regular Session

Pennsylvania House Bill HB2526

Introduced
8/12/24  

Caption

Further providing for proposed regulations and procedures for review.

Impact

If passed, HB2526 will establish more stringent requirements for regulatory review processes, particularly in the energy sector. By mandating that regulatory analyses consider potential cost impacts on electricity, the bill strives to protect consumers from sudden increases in energy expenses. This could lead to more cautious regulatory practices, with an emphasis on ensuring that new regulations do not inadvertently harm vulnerable populations who may struggle with higher utility fees.

Summary

House Bill 2526, as introduced in the Pennsylvania General Assembly, amends the Regulatory Review Act to enhance oversight and analysis of proposed regulations related to the energy sector. Specifically, it requires that whenever an agency submits a proposed regulation concerning the production, transportation, or use of fuel or electricity, the agency must also provide a regulatory analysis that evaluates the potential impact of the regulation on electricity prices. This provision is aimed at ensuring that policymakers understand how regulations may financially affect consumers, particularly low-income residents.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding HB2526 appears to reflect a mix of concern and support. Proponents argue that the added layer of scrutiny will help mitigate unjust financial burdens on low-income families. However, there are also reservations from those who believe that excessive regulation could stifle necessary innovation and responsiveness in energy policy. Overall, the discourse reflects a prioritization of consumer protection balanced against the need for regulatory flexibility in energy markets.

Contention

Notable points of contention include the balance between regulatory oversight and market flexibility. Critics may argue that the requirements imposed by HB2526 could slow down the regulatory process and create bottlenecks that hinder timely responses to changing energy needs. Supporters counter by asserting that the protection of low-income residents from fluctuating energy costs justifies any additional regulatory burden. This debate encapsulates the broader discussion of how best to manage energy policy while considering the economic realities faced by different demographics.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

PA HB113

Further providing for proposed regulations and procedures for review.

PA HB2365

Further providing for proposed regulations and procedures for review.

PA HB124

Further providing for proposed regulations and procedures for review.

PA SB188

Further providing for definitions, for proposed regulations and procedures for review and for final-form regulations and final-omitted regulations and procedures for review; and providing for concurrent resolution required for economically significant regulations.

PA SB333

Further providing for definitions, for proposed regulations and procedures for review and for final-form regulations and final-omitted regulations and procedures for review; providing for regulations deemed withdrawn; further providing for procedures for subsequent review of disapproved final-form or final-omitted regulations; and providing for concurrent resolution required for economically significant regulations.

PA HB1601

Further providing for definitions, for proposed regulations and procedures for review and for final-form regulations and final-omitted regulations and procedures for review; providing for regulations deemed withdrawn; further providing for procedures for subsequent review of disapproved final-form or final-omitted regulations; and providing for concurrent resolution required for economically significant regulations.

PA HB1598

Further providing for definitions, for proposed regulations and procedures for review and for final-form regulations and final-omitted regulations and procedures for review; providing for regulations deemed withdrawn; further providing for procedures for subsequent review of disapproved final-form or final-omitted regulations; and providing for concurrent resolution required for economically significant regulations.

PA HB487

Further providing for definitions, for proposed regulations and procedures for review and for final-form regulations and final-omitted regulations and procedures for review; providing for regulations deemed withdrawn; further providing for procedures for subsequent review of disapproved final-form or final-omitted regulations by the commission; and providing for concurrent resolution required for economically significant regulations.

PA SB726

Further providing for definitions, for proposed regulations and procedures for review and for final-form regulations and final-omitted regulations and procedures for review; providing for regulations deemed withdrawn; further providing for procedures for subsequent review of disapproved final-form or final-omitted regulations; providing for concurrent resolution required for economically significant regulations; further providing for existing regulations; and providing for State agency regulatory compliance officers and for Independent Office of the Repealer.

PA SB810

Further providing for definitions, for proposed regulations and procedures for review and for final-form regulations and final-omitted regulations and procedures for review; providing for regulations deemed withdrawn; further providing for procedures for subsequent review of disapproved final-form or final-omitted regulations; providing for concurrent resolution required for economically significant regulations; further providing for existing regulations; and providing for State agency regulatory compliance officers and for Office of Government Efficiency.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.